Planning your baby's birth

Hospital bag essentials
It's best to pack it a couple of weeks before your due date, but include a list of last-minute items to add. Visit the hospital ahead of time, and take your documents with you so you can pre-register at Admitting.

The paperwork
• health card proof of hospital insurance
• birth plan -- newborn care plan
• photocopy of pre-registration

What Mom needs
• something comfortable to wear during labour (The Midwifery Collective of Ottawa suggests a man's large flannel shirt -- very Canadian!)
• warm socks (not too tight) and slippers clothing for after the birth
• underwear (several pairs)
• nursing bra and breast pads
• personal toilet items
• sanitary pads (plus size)
• snacks, favourite juice (you may find apple, pineapple and orange juices too acidic at this time; try cranberry, grape or grapefruit)
• extra pillows
• massage oil
• lip balm
• music tapes and tape player
• big bath towels (the hospital can put them in the warmer for you)
• focal point (if you are using one during contractions)
• clothes to go home in
• facial tissues
• tennis balls (for back massage)
• magazines or light reading

What Dad and support person need
• snacks, juice
• personal toilet items
• comfortable clothes
• notepaper and pen
• telephone numbers
• change for phone, or calling card
• reading material
• camera
• money for parking and incidentals, but avoid bringing a wallet.

What baby needs
• diapers
• clothing: undershirt, stretchy sleeper, cardigan, hat, booties,
• two baby blankets
• Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (set by Transport Canada) -- approved infant car seat for the trip home