Labour and birth

When you go into labour, please phone your midwife, maternity unit or birthing suite at any time. We will ask you:

• when your baby is due
• timing and strength of your contractions
• whether your membranes have ruptured (waters broken).

Please put a pad on if you suspect your membranes have broken so the midwife can check it. It should be clear or slightly pinkish.

What you will need to bring into hospital

• If you have a supply of expressed breast milk, take it home on discharge.
• Your partners need to bring what they may require including all snacks (we don’t provide their meals).
• If you have medications that you need to bring, please let your midwife know on arrival.
• Do not bring large amounts of money or valuables. You are responsible for their safekeeping.
• You may be asked to complete a valuables disclaimer when you present to the hospital.

What to bring for you

• Loose and lightweight clothing for labour
• Comfortable day clothes and footwear
• Comfortable sleepwear
• Nursing bras and pads
• Sanitary pads
• Medicare Card and Private Health Insurance Card
• Handheld record (orange folder)
• Energy-rich foods (bananas, grapes, barley sugar, cheese, yoghurt)
• Tea, coffee if required between meals
• Massage oil with no added scents
• Watch or clock
• Music in CD or iDOC form for labour
• Battery charged 'tea light' candles are permitted only
• Camera and mobile phone - (Don’t use in areas where they might interfere with electronic equipment. Mobile phone use should be restricted in double rooms and turned off overnight).
• Maternity information booklet

What to bring for your baby

• 4 - 6 grow suits, either size 0000 or 000
• 4 - 6 singlets
• 4 - 6 lightweight wraps
• Nappies, pack of 32, newborn size
• 2 lightweight blankets
• Socks/mittens
• Hat for discharge
• Nappy changing gear - face washers, baby wipes, cotton balls
• Cloth nappies or hand towels for 'spill' cloth
• Tin of formula if artificially feeding

What you will need for your baby at home

You will need:

• a safe sleep environment for baby (cot or bassinet).
• approved rear-facing car seat
• pram
• sterilising equipment, bottles, caps and teats (if you are formula feeding your baby)

You may also like to purchase a baby bath, baby rocker or play mat.

Second-hand equipment

• When buying second-hand equipment make sure they are safe for baby.
• Car seats, prams and highchairs must have the recommended 5-point harness
• Visit the Australian standards website for more information.