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 for download here
Labour ward bag:
- Comfy nightie for labour (front opening is best)
- Light dressing gown
- Flip flops (for shower)
- Comfortable slippers
- Warm socks
- Toiletries, face cloth, shower cap
- Towel
- Gym ball (leave in car until needed)
- Ziplock bag with 2 nappies, babygrow and vest inside
- Spare underwear (2 or 3 pairs)
- Preferred music/docking station/portable speaker
- Snacks for you and support person
- Spare batteries (if using Tens machine)
- Massage oils e.g. lavender/electric essential oil diffuser (if desired)
- Change for parking or register through phone on parkingtag.ie
- Hand held fan (optional)
Postnatal ward bag:
For Mum:
- Night wear
- Supportive bra if breastfeeding
- 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 (disposable underwear can be very tight and tear easily)
- 2 towels - preferably not new and dark coloured
- Phone charger
For baby:
- A packet of disposable nappies
- Baby wipes (suitable for newborn)
- 5 vests
- 5 babygrows
- Cardigan
- 2 towels
Discharge bag:
The following should be brought in on your day of discharge for baby going home:
- Approved car seat
- Cardigan
- Warm outfit (depending on weather)
- Hat
- Blanket