
Checklist - maternity ward suitcase
Checklist - maternity ward suitcase
*Check whether the maternity ward has a list of the items you will need.
Items for hospital stay
- Birth plan
- Pyjamas with front opening for breastfeeding.
- Dressing gown and slippers.
- Pair of warm socks – feet get cold.
- Disposable panties.
- Maternity pads.
- Linen savers
- Feeding bras.
- Breast pads.
- Basic toiletries.
- Hair necessities.
- Cosmetics. (Lip balm to moisten lips).
- Face cloth and towel.
- Travelling detergent to wash underclothes (optional).
- Tissues.
- Reading materials.
- Ipod/music.
- Watch with a second hand.
- Camera/video camera.
- Tennis ball for back labour (for massage).
- Ice back for back labour.
- Telephone numbers and addresses of family and friends.
- Plastic bags for sending washing home.
- Water spray – to freshen up.
- Drinking water.
- Labour oil for massage.
- Natural sponge for sips of water.
- Thermos with ice chips.
- Notebook and pen to make notes and record contractions.
- Mirror to watch the head crowning, if you wish.
Because labour can be slow, your partner might want to pack a bag too. Things they may want to consider packing are toothpaste, a change of clothes, some snacks to keep them going, a camera and a book or magazine.
Going home
Pack a small case, with a change of clothes for yourself (a comfortable outfit) and your baby, that your partner can bring along when collecting you from the hospital.
Related articles

Medication for pain relief
In a normal, uncomplicated labour and delivery, the use of medication is not always necessary. Your own resources are often enough.
5 mins to read

Labour
As labour starts, a mother’s mood changes and she becomes less aware of what is happening outside her body, and more aware of what is happening inside her body.
5 mins to read




Signs of labour
The following signs of labour may occur in any order.
1. Progressive contractions
5 mins to read


Prenatal Checklist
Preparing for your prenatal appointments is important. Find out our prenatal checklist, so you can ask the right questions to your healthcare provider.
1 min to read

Father’s role
Sharing the adventure of pregnancy, birth and parenting can make this one of life’s most rewarding experiences.
5 mins to read

Caesarean birth
A Caesarean birth is the delivery of your baby through an abdominal uterine incision, instead of vaginally.
5 mins to read

The third stage of labour
This stage lasts from the birth of the baby until the placenta is delivered, usually from 5–20 m
5 mins to read


Siblings
Older siblings learn about sharing, life-long love and friendship.
2 mins to read

Variations and interventions in labour and birth
Each woman’s labour is unique and unpredictable. It is important therefore that you are prepared for all the possible eventualities and you keep an open mind.
1 min to read

Second stage of labour
This stage begins when the cervix reaches complete dilation and effacement, and it ends with the birth of the baby.
5 mins to read

Nutrition during pregnancy
By taking responsibility for your body, you can maximise your level of wellbeing and enjoy good health.
Good nutrition is of the utmost importance during your pregnancy
5 mins to read

Single parent
Today an increasing number of women are facing the challenges of pregnancy, birth and parenthood alone. This may be through personal choice or circumstantial.
2 mins to read

Vaginal birth
In most instances, the baby’s head is the presenting part that moves into your pelvis before labour begins.
5 mins to read

Labour support
Labour support is a concept that has been around for thousands of years.
5 mins to read