What to pack for the hospital

Have your bags packed at least one to two months before its due date — if you don't need it, fine, but it's better to have it ready than not!

For Mother

* Several nightgowns (that you don't mind getting murky!) and slippers.

*Heavy-duty sanitary pads for the post-birth bleeding known as lochia.

* Several changes of underwear. Unsexy as it is, try and get some with a high waist. In the event that you do have a caesarian section, you don't want your knicker line rubbing against the incision.

* A nursing bra and nursing pads.

* Your usual toiletries, including toothbrush and toothpaste. Gas in particular can dry your mouth out, making it feel stale.

* Hair bands.

* Chepels

*Clothes to go home in.

*A little money for necessities such snacks, magazines or even a taxi journey home.

* CD player and music of your choice, if you wish.

For Baby

* Nappies.

* White Clothes

* Blankets

* Baby Sheet and Towels