and don't forget

• Your antenatal notes
• Support pillow
• Drinks and snacks - labour's thirsty work, and you need to keep your energy levels up.
• Books or magazines and music player - giving birth isn't all action; there can be a lot of waiting around.
• Towel and toiletries – remember your
  toothbrush and toothpaste, and a hairbrush and make-up for that first close-up

take some books
or magazines and
a music player with
you - giving birth
isn't all action!

hospital bag - keep all your hospital kit in one safe place, packed and ready to go.

breast pads - essential to keep you comfortable and dry.

slippers - needed for hospital floors! Pack socks, too, in case your feet get cold.

nursing bra - though your milk may not come in until you've left hospital.

Nightdress and robe - slip into something comfortable after the birth. Front-opening is easier for breastfeeding.

nipple balm - great in the early days when you're getting to grips with breastfeeding.

disposable maternity briefs - not glamorous, but necessary. You'll need maternity towels, too

TENS machine - if you’re planning to use one. Click here for important information regarding the TENS machine.

clothes - pack as if you'll be staying a few days, in case you need to. Three to four sleepsuits and bodysuits a day should do it, plus a hat and scratch mitts.

muslins - invaluable for all sorts of mopping-up jobs!

nappies and wipes or cotton wool - whether you're going for disposables or resuables, bring lots with you. Newborns can need up to 10 changes a day.