What will I need for birth and labour? Packing your hospital bag

Here is a checklist of all you will need in the hospital or at the maternity. You just need to print it, pack your bag and tick the boxes! Keep in mind that you should keep the bag ready from the 37th week onwards.

• 3 bodies
• 2 sleepsuits/pyjamas
• 1 cotton hat to help baby regulate his body temperature
• 1 outfit for outside (possibly including coat if it's cold)
• 1 pair of small cotton mitts to prevent baby from scratching his face
• 1 small blanket
• nappies if the hospital does not provide them

• 1 package of sanitary pads (special for birth)
• 3-4 old underwear (large and comfortable) or disposable panties
• 1 nightgown possibly allowing for breastfeeding, 1 dressing gown and slippers
• 1 pack of breast pads (if applicable)
• 1 tube of cream in case of cracks (type Bépantène) to apply after each feeding
• 2 nursing bras
• Your usual toiletries (don’t forget the toothpaste, rarely provided!)
• 1 pair of earplugs (if you have to share your room with another mother)
• 1 comfortable outfit to leave the hospital (forget the pre-pregnancy jeans ... for now!)

• one old T-shirt or nightie (not risking anything)
• 1 pair of socks (barefoot, it's cold!)
• 1 lip balm
• 1 headband if you hair is long
• magazines, books, iPod DS ... to relax and get your mind on something else
• food (chocolate, energy bars, ... anything that can make you happy and give you energy) or change for the distributor. But do not to stuff yourself!
• 1 watch with seconds to measure the frequency of contractions
• list of phone numbers of family and friends you would like to contact to announce the birth as well as your mobile phone if it is allowed
• 1 camera for the first moments!

That's it, you're all set!

The whole team of findababyname.com wishes you a wonderful birth!

If you haven’t already checked it, have a look at:

• What to buy for your baby’s room?
• Caring for your baby: what basic equipment will you need?

Inspiration for baby names can be found here:
Baby names with 3 letters
Baby names with 4 letters
Baby names with 5 letters
Baby names with 6 letters

Here you will find baby names with a specific initial or last letter from A to Z.
Baby names starting with letter: A   –  B   –  C   –  D   –  E   –  F   –  G   –  H   –  I   –  J   –  K   –  L   –  M   –  N   –  O   –  P   –  Q   –  R   –  S   –  T   –  U   –  V   –  W   –  X   –  Y   –  Z 

This webpage offers information about your baby birth. Read our best articles:

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• The worries every new parent »
• Necessary equipment »
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