One thing you can start to do in advance of your little one’s arrival is organise a hospital bag. A hospital bag allows you to be as comfortable as possible during your hospital stay, as well as having things ready for those first 24 hours with your newborn. This simple task is an easy way for you to feel prepared and empowered, relieving some of those feelings of stress and anxiety.
Having this done far ahead of the due date can help you be ready for any unpredictable timings, as we are well aware babies will arrive on their own schedule. It will also not add to any last minute to dos and appointments that may crop up closer to the due date, letting you focus on staying calm and excited for the arrival of your baby.
You can find a comprehensive list of what to pack on the NHS website, but we asked real life CAYO mums for their top things to pack:
“I would recommend a long phone charger lead, as often a charging point is not that close to you and it’s nice to be able to use your phone whilst in bed. An eye mask because hospital lighting is awful, and it helps you nap when the baby is sleeping. And snacks. Get your partner to bring their own as during labour I didn't really want anything to eat, but once it was all over I was SO hungry and would've been disappointed to find all my snacks eaten!"
“I almost took all of my possessions for my first child and it was frankly ridiculous. I would have 2 bags- one bag for the labour itself plus an outfit for the baby, and then a second bag kept in the boot of your car with extra clothes, more baby outfits etc. (With the best will in the world, it is unlikely your partner will do a great job with going home and picking up extra clothes if you need to stay in for a few days). Finally, nice food and drink; it is a time for chocolate!.
“Take straws to sip drinks with. Your own toilet paper/ wipes, as hospital toilet paper is too rough and a perineal ice pack…”
“All the comfy clothes, fluffy socks and slippers. A comfy and pretty dressing gown so you feel comfortable wandering around afterwards, and your own towel because the hospital ones are rubbish. Oh and maternity size period pads- small pads are not going to cut it, and you should pack way more than you think you will need.”
“My top suggestions would be nice toiletries and moisturiser for that first shower (you deserve it!) Lip balm- using gas and air really dries your lips out. Headphones, if possible wireless (also comes in useful if your birthing partner is annoying you with the rubbish they’re listening to as then they can have the headphones). Massive black pants, the biggest ones you can find.”
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