What to take to hospital

From about two weeks before your due date, it’s a good idea to have a bag packed and ready for hospital – that way you won’t be trying to get everything together while you’re in labour. Here's a basic list to get you going:

  • Your antenatal notes and birth plan
  • Coins for vending machines and car park
  • Slippers or thick socks
  • Dressing gown
  • One or two nighties, preferably front-opening
  • Old undies/disposable knickers
  • Maternity pads (two or three packs)
  • Nursing bras
  • Basic toiletry kit – toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, face wipes, lip salve and moisturiser
  • Patterned towel and patterned pillow and pillowcase (patterned linen won’t get put in with the hospital laundry!)
  • Nipple cream and breast pads
  • A stash of snacks and energy drinks
  • Comfortable clothes to go home in

Optional extras include an Ipod and speakers, massage lotion, a Swiss ball, a TENS machine if you’re using one, a supply of squash and glucose tablets, things to help pass the time (e.g. a magazine or book), a baby diary for your to start noting feeding times, information about breastfeeding, make up, contact lenses etc.

And for your baby:

  • Nappies
  • Cotton wool
  • Vests/babygrows (a few of each)
  • Socks and scratch mitts,
  • Thin cotton hat
  • Muslins (buy coloured or patterned ones so that yours are easy to distinguish)
  • Blankets and a warm outfit for going home
  • Car seat

Hospitals have swaddling sheets, cellular blankets and baby nighties, but you can bring your own if you prefer.

 

 

Nutrition for babies

Breast milk is the best nutrition for babies. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of your baby's life. Breastfeeding can also continue during and beyond the introduction of solid foods.

When you are breastfeeding, good nutrition is vital for you and your baby. Continue with the healthy diet you were following during pregnancy and try not to skip meals.

Combining breast and bottle feeding can affect your breast milk supply.

If you decide not to breastfeed, this decision may be difficult to reverse if you change your mind.

For further advice on feeding options, always contact your health visitor or midwife.

*No.1 claim refers to Philips AVENT overall brand

Based on December 2010 TNS online satisfaction survey conducted among more than 10,000 female users of childcare brands and products in the USA, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Russia and China.

 

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