Packing the maternity bag

Are you approaching your due date, and maybe you've started to think about what you'll need for the birth when the time comes? Here we will go through when it might be a good idea to have your maternity bag ready, what is good to have with you and what is actually not needed.

When should the maternity bag be packed?

We recommend that most of the maternity bag is packed and ready in week 37. This is partly because the majority of babies are born between weeks 37+0 and 41+6, but also to avoid stress if the baby decides to arrive early. If your bag is packed in week 37, you know what is missing and may need to be purchased before it is time to go into labor.

What do you need to pack in your maternity bag?

If you plan to drive home from the birth, you must take a baby seat with you. This also applies if you plan to take a taxi, as most taxi companies do not have baby carriers for newborns in their cars. If you are driving your own car, it is a good idea to go to the maternity hospital beforehand so that you know where to drive in, and where the parking lot and reception are. During this "test drive", also take note of what type of payment is required at the parking lot. Is cash needed or is there an app to download?

Wallet with ID, mobile phone charger, medicines (if you take any special ones) as well as insulin and glucose meter (if you need) are necessities to be packed.

Comfortable clothes, underwear, toiletries and slippers for both mother and partner, a change of clothes for baby (remember to bring clothes you don't need to wear over your head) and a blanket are good to bring. Remember that the type of clothes and blankets you choose to bring depends on the season. If it is colder outside at the time of delivery, the baby will also need outerwear.

If you have decided to breastfeed, pack a nursing bra and nursing pads. If you have decided not to breastfeed, pack a tight sports bra as this will inhibit the production of breast milk.

To quickly replenish your energy during labor and delivery, it is a good idea to bring snacks with you. Keep in mind that many hospitals do not allow nuts, due to the risk of allergies in other patients. Therefore, choose hypoallergenic snacks and also bring a drink if you want something special. Most hospitals have a kiosk where you can buy and stock up on more snacks and drinks if needed, but it can be nice to have a small base when you go in.

Don't forget to pack your birth certificate in your maternity bag (tip: read our article "The birth certificate")

What might be useful to take with you?

The things listed here you can probably do without, but are usually recommended by other birth attendants and/or partners.

Loudspeakers, downloaded music and extension cords for chargers are recommended technologies, mainly for entertainment but music is also a way to relax the mother. If you have chosen a relaxation method that includes, for example, a wheat pillow or TENS machine, these should of course be packed.

You can also bring a baby nest and/or baby sling for your baby.

It is usually appreciated if a lip balm is included in the toiletry bag, as many people get dry and chapped lips during childbirth. The same applies to hair ties or hair bands, as it can be nice to get hair off the face during childbirth. A water bottle comes high up among many recommendations, and can be packed with advantage.

Soft toilet paper is on many people's list of things that are good to have. Of course, toilet paper is available in the hospital, but many people find it too stiff and hard after giving birth. So, if you like soft toilet paper, bring an extra roll.

What do you not need to pack?

There will be things available for you at the maternity hospital, so there are a number of things you do not need to pack. All types of painkillers, pads, food and simple drinks, a cup for alternative feeding, diapers* and wipes* should be available in most hospitals.

Unfortunately, not all hospitals offer diapers and wipes, so call your chosen maternity hospital beforehand or talk to someone you know who has given birth there for information.

Don't forget that a full list of all the products Baby Journey recommends can be found under the "To-do" list in apps.

Want to read more about childbirth? Click on the link here!