Hospital Bags for You and Baby
For You....
Loose clothing that you will feel comfortable in during labour and after the baby is born is important. Labouring outfits can get wet and messy so please make sure you have other comfortable clothes for after the birth. A good tip is to have the outfit and toiletries you want to wear in a single bag of some kind that makes it easy for the midwife and your partner/husband/support people to find for when you shower after the birth. Here is a helpful list of items to remember: · Pillow and pillowcase (make sure it is coloured or patterned so it doesn't get confused with the hospital one) · Water drink bottle · Wheat bag or hot water bottle · Baggy T-shirt, sarong or whatever you’re comfy moving about in during labour · Comfortable PJ’s or a nighty or loose clothing for after the birth and your stay in the hospital (Clothes that have a front opening are more ideal for breastfeeding) · Jandals or slippers · Toiletries including – shampoo, soap or body wash, toothbrush, hair ties you can bring your own sanitary pads but there are some provided in the hospital so please save yours for home · Several pairs of underwear (oldies but goodies) · Supportive bra · Camera (make sure the battery is charged) · Food or light snacks for you and your birthing partner · Loose change for vending machines and parking · Mobile phone and charger · Music to play while in labour or any other Homeopathic remedies Remember not to take too much in the way of valuables with you as they may go missing |
For Baby.... When your baby is born the main aim is to have skin to skin time. After baby’s been checked and is ready to be dressed it makes things easier if you have the outfit you want to first dress baby in ready in a separate bag with a new born nappy, hat and a blanket. Here is a helpful list of items to remember for your stay: .New born Nappies (half a dozen will be fine to start with) · Baby wraps · Baby blankets · 2 Hats (woollen preferred) · 3 Body Suits cotton for summer / wool for winter · Mittens · Socks (check that there are no threads on the inside of the socks that can wind around baby’s toes) · Sleep-suits or stretch and grows · Woollen cardigan · Merino wool singlet · Feeding Pillow (if wanted) · Nursing Pads · Nipple Cream · Car Seat (you will not be discharged without one) · And any other culturally significant items that you would like Wool blankets breath and are safer for babies. Polar fleece blankets do not breath and too many layers can overheat a baby. Merino wool wraps and wool blankets are ideal Other: If you have a cultural tie for baby's cord instead of the plastic ones please bring it and remind us you want to use it Any other cultural items or needs please let us know/remind us Please bring a bag for any wet or dirty clothing to be placed in to. |