The birth of your baby can be exciting and is a special time in your life. Each birth is different, even if you have given birth before. There are some things you can do to prepare your body and mind for labour and birth:

• Stay active throughout pregnancy to prepare your body for labour and birth– (exercise in pregnancy link).  
• Attend Antenatal Parent Education classes to educate yourself and your birth partner on how to best manage your labour and birth – (parent ed link). 
• Write a Birth Plan or discuss your preferences with your midwife or doctor throughout pregnancy so they are aware of your choices.   
• Discuss with your partner/family/friends who you would like to be there to support you throughout labour and birth. Positive, helpful support is important in helping you to stay calm, centred and helping to communicate your choices to midwives and doctors during your labour. You may also be interested in employing a doula for extra support, there is a fee involved in this.  

Come to the birth unit or call your midwife anytime if you have concerns about the following: 

• Bleeding
• You think you've broken your waters
• Your baby is not moving as much as normal 
• Any pains (including labour) 
• Severe headaches or abnormal swelling in the face, hands, or legs 
• Blurred vision 

What do I pack for the hospital? Below is an idea of what to bring to the hospital for your labour and birth: 

General: 

• Antenatal card 
• Medicare card and Private health details (if applicable) 
• Phone charger 
• Music
• Camera and chargers
• Water bottle 
• Preferred snacks 

For Mum: 

• Loose comfortable clothing 
• Supportive/maternity bras 
• Underwear (cheap or disposable) 
• Socks and shoes 
• Slippers/thongs 
• Sleepwear 
• Dressing gown 
• Comfortable breastfeeding friendly tops e.g., button up shirt or dress 
• Jumper 
• Make up (not essential)
• Toiletries (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, brush, comb, and face cloth) 
• Maternity sanitary pads 
• Breast pads 
• Lip balm 
• Pillow (if you like) 

For Partners: 

• Food, snacks, water bottle 
• Loose comfortable clothing
• Toiletries 
• Camera and chargers 
• Swimming shorts (if you want to labour/birth in water) 

For Baby:

• Nappies (8-10 per day) 
• Baby wipes 
• If you are planning to formula feed, you will need to bring your own formula and bottles 
• Baby clothes to wear home 
• Baby blanket 

Note: Please ensure you have an approved, fitted car restraint for your baby in your car prior to labour.