Have you spent several months dreaming of the day when you would finally get to know your baby? Have you stocked up on baby supplies or decorated her room? But don't forget one of the most important tasks in the third trimester: deciding what to pack in your maternity bag - for baby, you and your partner.

Mummy's hospital bag: labour and delivery

The first thing you need to file in your bag is the hospital records. Keep your medical records handy so that your doctors can easily see your medical history. Don't forget to put a dressing gown in the maternity case. It should be soft and useful for pacing around during labour or afterwards if you spend time in hospital. You will need comfortable slippers that are easy to put on when you walk around the hospital wards. Bring flip-flops to use in the shower.  Your lips may get chapped during labour. Having a lip balm on hand will help moisturize yours. Some moms-to-be find a little massage while you relax. If this is the case for you, put lotion or oil in your hospital bag. Your hospital will also provide pillows, but they may not be suitable for you. So if you have a favourite pillow, put it in your maternity suitcase as well. This will allow you to have even some of the comforts of home.

Hospital bag after the birth

After giving birth, you will need something comfortable to sleep in while you are in the hospital. Bring at least one soft, loose fitting nightgown. Choose a front-opening gown if you plan to breastfeed. Although the hospital can provide them, take plenty of sturdy maternity towels with you, just in case. It's normal to bleed a lot after birth, and maternity pads are softer and more absorbent than standard pads. Carry lots of comfortable underwear that you don't want to clutter up and that are big enough for these maternity panties. Don't forget tissues, hairbrush, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, facial cleanser, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer, hair clips and tweezers. Take a plastic bag to put dirty clothes in. In addition to your nightgown, you may choose to wear comfortable clothing during your hospital stay.

Baby hospital bag

Yes, everything that was said before was for mom. As far as baby stuff goes, here they are. First of all, be aware that hospital policies may vary depending on the clothing newborns are allowed to wear. Therefore, check with your doctor in advance to find out what to pack. You may need to add something to what the hospital provides in terms of accessories and diapers. Newborns can easily get cold and you may want to add something to what the hospital provides in terms of accessories and diapers. Even when there is skin-to-skin contact, your newborn can wear a hat and socks. Although the hospital probably provides blankets, it's always a good idea to have a personal blanket to use for skin-to-skin contact. This can also be used to keep your baby warm in the car seat on the way home. Finally, you will probably need several diapers a day for the newborn. So start stocking up. With this list of things to put in the Maternity, Mummy or Expectant Mummy suitcase, you'll have the essentials to make sure your baby is well looked after at the hospital.