Whether you're planning to check yourself out of hospital rather quickly following birth or your recovery requires a longer hospital stay, being prepared goes a long way! Thinking you packed something only to look in your bag and discover it's not there can be really inconvenient!
Even if you are someone who tends to leave things until the last minute, I strongly encourage you to pack your hospital bag in the early part of your third trimester. This will allow you time to pick up any items you may not have at home and worst case scenario, you have a bag already packed should your baby arrive earlier than expected.
I encourage expectant mums to bring not only the essentials like clothing, snacks, money, phone chargers etc. but also items that will encourage a more comfortable, oxytocin-promoting experience.
Oxytocin is one of the key hormones that helps labour progress. It encourages more regular, frequent and efficient contractions. If you feel relaxed, comfortable and safe, your labour is more likely to progress with fewer medical interventions (and stress!). Items, like those needed to facilitate music or hypnobirthing tracks, LED candles, a photo of your older children, essential oils, a massager, favourite pillow, etc. will help create a lovely space and assist with various comfort measure techniques. Having a home birth? You can print your list of essentials below as well!
