If you’re planning a hospital birth in Sydney I have something you’re going to love!
I’m talking about packing your hospital bag, but this isn’t an ordinary list. I polled my best girlfriends (who have had 10 babies between them – natural, with drugs, without drugs, and c-section, in public and private hospitals around Sydney) and asked them what were their essentials for their hospital bags when they had their babies. This list is crafted JUST FOR Sydney Mums planning a hospital birth.
Let’s make sure your bag is packed with everything you need to feel empowered during your birth.
Toilet Paper!
I bet that wasn’t what you thought my first essential would be! I remember when I was packing my bag for my first baby (over 16 years ago now!!) my bestie – who had already had 2 babies and was expecting her 3rd – told me to pack my own toilet paper. I thought she was crazy and maybe a little overdramatic, but once I had seen (& felt) the rough 1 ply hospital-grade toilet paper on offer in the maternity ward, I was so thankful to have my lux 3 ply quilted TP to pull out of my bag!
Bring plenty of snacks and a drink bottle with a straw.
There are a few things you’ll want to make sure you have on hand to keep your energy up during labor.
Pack snacks that are high in protein and easy to eat on the go, like granola bars or nuts or lollies. You’ll also want to bring along a water bottle with a straw, as staying hydrated is key during labour.
It’s always a good idea to have a few changes of clothes with you in case your labour goes longer than expected. After all, you never know what might happen during childbirth!
Some comfortable – breastfeeding friendly – pyjamas are a must. Button up Pyjama tops and shirts are great for those early days – just make sure the buttons are functional – I found out the hard way when I had my first baby, that my cute Victoria’s Secret pyjamas did not have buttons that actually undid! It was such a fail! After that I made sure I always packed a pyjama shirt that actually had functional buttons!
A cosy tracksuit is also essential for when you want to appear “dressed” if you are expecting visitors after the birth during your stay in hospital.
For a hospital birth in Sydney, you want to pack items that will keep you comfortable and relaxed.
Consider bringing a loose-fitting nightgown or robe or even a cardigan. This will help you stay comfortable during labor, and it will also make it easier for nurses and doctors to check your progress (if you choose).
I found the hospitals to be cold, and I was so glad I had packed my cosy bed socks for walking around my room and the halls whilst labour was progressing and for the few days after the birth as well. Some warm slippers are also great.
The going home outfit – for both mum and baby.
Choose comfortable loose clothes for mum to go home in – a tracksuit or a soft dress that is breastfeeding friendly.
For baby – a pre-washed soft cotton onesie or all-in-one is perfect. With my second baby he arrived a month early, so although I had a very cute outfit all packed and ready for him, he was a tiny 2.6kg and my sister had to dash to the baby store to buy a 0000 outfit for him to come home in. Best laid plans went out the window.
For all my babies I had a beautiful hand knitted blanket that was a family heirloom to bring my babies home in. It was a beautiful touch to have for each of my babies.
If you’re planning on breastfeeding, pack a nursing bra and some nursing pads.
Here’s a list of items you could consider packing in your hospital bag:
● Nursing pads: These absorb leakage and help to keep your clothing dry.
● Breast milk storage bags: These can be used to store expressed milk for later use.
● Lanolin cream: This can be used to soothe sore nipples.
● Silverette nursing cups
● A water bottle: This will help you to stay hydrated while nursing – I got insanely thirsty every time I breastfed!
By packing these items in your hospital bag, you’ll be prepared to start breastfeeding as soon as your baby is born!
Silverette nursing cups were not around when my babies were born, but many clients, friends and family swear by them and how amazing they are for nipple recovery.
Next, if you’re having a water birth, make sure to pack a top that can get wet or a swimsuit.
Water births can provide a more relaxed birth experience. If you’re planning on having a water birth, there are a few things you’ll need to bring with you to the hospital.
Consider bringing a swimsuit – ideally a two piece if you want to keep the top on during birth. You’ll also need a large (fluffy and soft) towel to dry off after the birth, and a small towel to place under your head while you’re in the tub.
Don’t forget to bring your hypno-birthing audio or other calm meditations you might want to listen to during labour!
Water births can be an incredible experience!
Pro tip: Whilst your hospital might not have a bath to labour in many will have showers, so make sure you plan to use the warm water in labour as a comfort technique.
So what do you need to bring to the hospital when you have a natural birth?
Download my quick checklist to make sure you have everything you need!
What to Pack for Hospital Checklist Printable
I hope reading Essentials Every Sydney Mum Needs for a Comfortable Hospital Stay has given you some solid ideas! If you’re still looking for a Sydney Newborn Photographer, click here to see my newborn portfolio.