Isn't it such a strange feeling when the time comes to prepare your birth bag and you haven't given birth before.
I remember the feeling myself. What on earth am I supposed to include in this magical bag of tricks? I remember watching countless videos on YouTube, reading blog posts online, scrolling through birth accounts on instagram, trying to find the answer to the perfect "birth bag" kit.
Here's what I am glad I packed:
- Clothes for my baby
- Nappies and wipes
- TENS machine
- Lip balm
- Clary sage
- Pads
- Disposable postpartum underwear
- A big reusable water bottle
- A comfortable gown and oversized shirt
- Comfy socks
- A book of affirmations I had all the amazing women in my life add to at my baby blessing women's circle
- Soap, shampoo, conditioner, cleanser and moisturiser.
- A copy of my birth plan.
There were a bunch of other things I packed and I remember thinking they were super important. I literally walked into the hospital with a suitcase and small duffle bag and honestly, most of what I packed remained untouched.
It is hard to know what you'll need when you're birthing - especially if it is your first birth and you aren't going to be having a home birth.
Personally, having my baby in hospital there were so many unknowns. What is provided for you? How long will I be staying after I give birth? How easily will my family be able to drop supplies in if I need something? What type of support will be available in the maternity ward?
For everyone, the answer will be different. But what do you feel like you will need most during labour and in those first 24 hours after birth for both you and your baby? What will make you both most comfortable if you aren't in your own home?
That is what you need to pack