Week 31

Mum

It may seem a bit early to pack a hospital bag, but if you do it now, it’ll give you a sense of being prepared. Even if you’re planning a home birth, pack the bag in case of an emergency, or simply to have all the essentials together in one place.

For you:

Pyjamas or night dress, preferably one that buttons up in front (at least 2 pairs)
Dressing gown
Nursing bras x 3
Cotton knickers x 10
Socks
Slippers
Jandals for the shower
Clothes to wear home (alas, still your pregnancy clothes, because even after the baby’s out, your tummy will be still be swollen)
Toiletries (your usual overnight stuff)
Make-up (to be honest, you probably won’t bother with it, busy as you’ll be, but just in case)
Disposable breast pads and nipple cream
Any medications or vitamins you are taking
Copy of your birth plan
List of people and numbers to call after birth (store them in your phone)
Snacks and bottles of water
Camera with extra batteries or charger
Mobile phone and charger
Books/magazines
Cash/credit cards/wallet
Maternity pads (these should be supplied by the hospital, but you’ll feel better knowing you have them available)
A few of pairs of big granny undies (high waist) because if you have a C-section you don’t want the elastic to rub the stitches.

For baby:

Car capsule or car seat (already installed and ready for the baby)
Blankets x 2
Muslin wraps x 2
Baby bodysuits x 4
Socks/booties x2
Beanie
Going home outfit
Bottles/formula/steriliser if you plan to bottle feed
Nappies and baby wipes (the hospital should have them available, but in case they don’t)

Dad

Get packed for the hospital: A change of clothes, some snacks and water, something to read, a card game, change for the parking meter and for the vending machine. Remember the camera.

Baby

You are the approximate size and weight of a coconut. You are able to turn your head from side to side, and you’re moving a lot in general. Enjoy it while you can – in the next few weeks, you will go through a growth spurt that will make your house tighter.