Preparing for your baby’s arrival involves many steps, and packing a thoughtful, well-stocked labour bag can make a big difference. Your labour bag should contain items for both comfort and utility, helping you and your partner stay grounded and prepared for every stage. Here’s a detailed guide on what to bring in your labour bag.

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Essentials for Labour and Delivery:

1. Birth Plan: Bring a printed copy to ensure that your medical team is aware of your wishes.
2. Class Notes: Bring any helpful notes from childbirth classes that can remind you of breathing techniques or other comfort strategies.

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Comfort Items for Labour:

• Loose-fitting T-shirt: Comfort is key, so bring a large, loose T-shirt for labour.
• Non-skid socks: Labour rooms can be chilly, and warm, non-skid socks will keep your feet cozy and steady.
• Hairbrush and elastics: For keeping your hair out of your face.
• Dressing gown and slippers: Easy-to-slip-on items to move around comfortably.
• Favourite pillow: Bring a familiar pillow with a unique pillowcase (for easy identification) to stay comfortable.
• Face cloths: Great for cooling your face or neck.
• Refreshing face wipes: These will help you feel refreshed and energized.
• Lip balm: Keeps lips soft and moisturized.
• Fan or spray bottle: Helps keep you cool, especially during intense contractions.
• Music device and playlist: Create a calming environment with music that soothes and motivates.
• Candles and lighter: Battery-operated ones are ideal for creating a peaceful ambiance.

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Tools for Relaxation and Pain Relief:

• Massage oil or powder: Choose unscented or mildly scented oils for a calming massage.
• Tennis balls (in a sock): Perfect for rolling over your back or pressing against for back pain relief.
• Manual massagers: Handy for back, shoulders, hands, and feet to relieve tension.
• Hot packs and cold packs: Ideal for soothing areas like your lower back or abdomen.
• Soft drink or cold water bottle: Roll it over sore areas, especially your back, for cooling relief.
• Focal item: A picture, baby toy, or inspirational item to help you focus and stay motivated.
• Birth ball: Great for easing lower back pain and promoting optimal baby positioning.
• Bendy straws: Makes sipping easier when lying down.
• Something to drink: Keep hydrated and energized.
• Snacks: High-energy snacks like bananas, cereals, and trail mix are great for energy bursts.
• Camera and charger: Capture those unforgettable first moments.

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Hygiene and Freshening Up:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Refreshing after active labour.
• Face towel and toiletries: A fresh towel, tissues, and other toiletries will help you feel more at home.
• Change of clothes: After delivery, a fresh change of clothes can make you feel much more comfortable.

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Essential Gadgets and Items:

• Phone and charger: Make calls, listen to music, or simply document the moment.
• Tablet or iPad: Useful for entertainment during early labour.
• Vaginal swab: Check with your provider if this is recommended for microbiome transfer.

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Partner’s Labour Bag:

• Cash and credit cards: Handy for meals, parking, and emergencies.
• Medical aid card and paperwork: Ensure you have everything ready for check-in.
• Watch: For timing contractions.
• Birth plan copy: For easy access if needed.
• Music and light reading material: Helpful for relaxing during downtime.
• Change of clothes and comfortable shoes: Be prepared for long hours on your feet.
• Cell phone and charger: Essential for updates, photos, and calls to family.
• Snacks and change for vending machines: Keep energy up with easy-access snacks.

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Hospital Bag for Postpartum:

Leave this in the car until you’re transferred to the ward.

• Nursing-friendly sleep shirts: Comfortable, front-opening tops for breastfeeding.
• Toiletries and a thick towel: Having your own towel can be a comfort after delivery.
• Disposable pants and maternity pads: These essentials will help manage postpartum recovery. Maternity Hospital Panty – Carriwell Maternity Pads – Carriwell
• Feme Pad: Consider a perineal ice pack for soothing after stitches. Femé Pad – Carriwell
• Breastfeeding supplies: Breast pads, soothing gel packs, and a feeding bra for convenience.Breast Soother – Carriwell
• Hospital Products For your Hospital bag – Carriwell
• Mirror and plastic bag: For personal grooming and laundry storage.
• Ear plugs: Rest better by tuning out ward noise.
• Contact number for lactation consultant: Helpful if you need breastfeeding support.

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Baby’s Bag:

• Outfit: Pack a soft vest, babygro’s, booties, and a receiving blanket.
• 2 diapers: Bring a couple to start with until you’re settled.

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Your labour bag is an opportunity to bring items that add comfort, function, and personal touches to this special moment. By packing thoughtfully, you can make your labour experience as soothing and stress-free as possible.