Packing A Hospital Bag For Labour (UK)

Getting ready to give birth? If you're going to hospital or a birthing centre in the UK in 2020, you'll need to pack a hospital bag for labour: things you'll need before and after the baby comes.

So we've pulled together a checklist of all the key things to pack in your hospital bag, when to pack it, and other ideas to put on your list for when the due date is getting close.

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[Em-teml]

I think there should have been some mention of pre made formula for Mums who aren’t going to breastfeed. Some hospitals do not supply formula so checking if your hospital does or doesn’t is handy so you know whether to take some or not.
I think in this day and age we need to be open minded and accepting of Mums who don’t want to or can’t breastfeed.

[Claudia-nejl]

There was a condom advert at the start, I- I can’t 😂😂😂

[rellas]

Found this really handy as I lost my list from the first time around and just needed a reminder. I know to some it may seem a bit excessive but labour is pretty unpredictable it's best to be as prepared as possible so your birthing partner doesn't have to constantly leave you. I was induced my first time around and everything came in handy as I had to stay a few days and was well happy we had everything we needed.

Also I definitely recommend ready made formula just in case (the hospital actually provide sterilised bottles perfect for new-born's) along with the sleep suits that have the mittens and booties (all in ones) they are perfect trust me instead of faffing around with dethatched mittens, socks or booties.

The dress after labour was perfect as I tore slightly and was so glad I didn't have to bother putting trousers on lol. It was also great before labour just walking around the ward (I had a knee length black loose fitting dress) but also when the nurses had to keep checking your down there parts it made it much easier than having to remove loose fitting bottoms etc... but everyone's different.

[EllaBeth]

it feels a bit excessive considering that in the UK hospitals only keep you in for about 6 to 12hrs after giving natural birth.

[dannicordery]

Thankyou, this gives me a much better idea of what to take, about to pack my bag now at 32 weeks. Also if you're doing hypnobirthing, my midwife has recommended I bring in nice scents like pillow sprays to calm me, aromatherapy oils and battery candles to make it less of a scary hospital room.

[jadejade]

I dont think any babies need a bath when they first born. Their umbilical cord is still fresh/raw. Babies get their first real bath when their cord falls off. I just learn that today.

[ayeshasultana]

You are going for a week or for month omg its too much to take.. :D

[shontelwilliams]

So helpful, this will be my first birthing experience. Thank you so much.

[purplefreax]

Unfortunately here in Chicago il a dress is not an option to get out of the hospital 😕 lol I am due January & for me January-March is the coldest time in Chicago lol

[housseindeheyehofficial]

Thanks for your amazing video is really helpful 👏👏🙏💝

[Mumsnet]

Is there anything we've missed, or that you found essential when you gave birth? Let us know!

[melaniafs]

Does the hosital provides you with anything? In other countries the hospital give you a "basket" with things for the baby once you give birth, which reduces the things in your baby bag.
They also give you towels if you want to shower and definitely hot meals.

[staceyhunt]

I've stayed in hospital for 1 week with my first and 4 days with my 2nd because I hemorrhaged with both. I didn't bring nearly this much stuff and still barely used what I did bring. 😂 I took a big bag-for-life bag full of snacks with my 2nd though. That I used all of. 🤔 Other than that, I fit all my stuff (And I have to pack 2 sizes of clothes for my kids because my 17m old is still in size 6-9m clothes - My kids are always tiny) and baby bits into one overnight style bag. 🤦‍♀️ I don't understand how people pack so much!

[louisefoster]

I was in hospital for a week and took less than this and got ate by the nurses

[xMaddieMuffin]

Theres actually no law in place in the UK that prevents you from taking your baby home without a car seat. It’s hospital policy in select places, but not illegal. Baring in mind not everyone drives. so that’s false info.

[bluebreton]

Mannn, you really don't need all this in your bag. If you have an natural birth, you're pretty much in and out in less than 24 hours. You'll just come home unpacking all that you didn't use.

[carlagreco]

You’re bringing a birthing ball? Lol! That’s too many things

[dawnuk]

I am never going back to Lloyd's pharmacy dingwall ever again! I was treated appallingly by a old hag for simply asking for a packet of co- codomols, I was very, very upset! I am only now getting over the abrasive attack. I would advise anybody to stay clear of the wretched place!!!!