The following are a list of suggested items to bring with you for your stay in hospital. It is a good idea to have a bag ready with these things some time before your due date, in case you have to leave the house in a hurry. Please also bring your completed 'My Medicines and Supplements' leaflet, detailing all medications and supplements that you take.
There is limited storage available within the hospital, so if possible, try to keep personal items to a minimum. Leave bigger bag in the car until after baby has been delivered.
'My Hospital Bag checklist' is available to view and download here
Labour Ward Bag
Comfy nightie for labour (front opening is best)
Light dressing gown
Flip flops (for the shower)
Comfortable slippers
Warm socks
Toiletries
Face cloth
Shower cap
Bath towel
Spare underwear (2 or 3 pairs)
Zip lock bag with 2 nappies, babygrow, vest inside & wipes.
Colostrum in cooler bag/container (if Harvesting)
Snacks for you and support person
Tens machine & spare batteries (if using any)
Change for parking or register through phone on www.parking.ie
Additional things you may like to bring but not a requirement:
Music/docking station/portable speaker
Massage oils e.g. lavender/electric essential oil diffuser (if desired)
Lip salve
A copy of your birth preference
Birth Affirmations
Labour/Birthing Comb
Ear plugs & eye mask (if spending the night on antenatal ward)
Hand held fan
Winner Flow Breathing Device (if using)
Please note that The NMH Provides yoga balls/peanut balls/birthing stools/heat packs.
Postnatal Ward Bag
For Mum
Night wear (front buttoning is best for breastfeeding).
Supportive bra if breastfeeding (avoid underwire bras). e.g colostrum silicon collector to express milk. Breast pads
Maternity pads - at least 2 packs (not plastic backed). Have more at home which can be brought in.
Comfortable, high waisted, large fitting underwear - approx 10 pairs.
2 towels - preferably not new, ideally dark coloured.
Phone charger, notepad and pen
Feeding pillow (if preferred)
For baby
A packet of disposable nappies
Cotton Wool/baby wipes (suitable for newborn)
Approx 5 vests
Approx 5 babygrows
Cardigan
2 small towels for bathing/changing
Discharge Bag
The following should be brought in on your day of discharge for baby going home
Approved car seat. For guidelines visit www.rsa.ie
Cardigan
Warm outfit (depending on weather)
Hat
Blanket