For Baby

• 2–3 newborn-sized onesies/sleepsuits
• Baby mittens, socks, and hats
• Receiving blanket and a warm blanket
• Going-home outfit
• Nappies/diapers (newborn size)
• Wipes (unscented)
• Baby towel
• Burp cloths or muslin squares
• Baby formula and bottles (if not breastfeeding)
• Car seat (installed ahead of time)

For Mum Clothing:

• 2–3 nightgowns or loose PJs (front-opening if breastfeeding)
• Comfortable going-home outfit
• Maternity/nursing bras
• Breast pads
• Maternity underwear/disposable underwear
• Non-slip socks or slippers
• Robe or shawl
• Flip flops (for shower)

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste
• Face wash and moisturiser
• Lip Balm
• Hairbrush, ties/clips
• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
• Deodorant
• Sanitary/maternity pads
• Nipple cream (if breastfeeding)
• Peri bottle or postpartum wash bottle
• Towel and washcloth

Documents

• Hospital file and ID
• Insurance information
• Birth plan (if you have one)

Other essentials

• Phone and charger (extra-long cable if possible)
• Reusable water bottle with straw
• Pillow from home (in a colored pillowcase)
• Notepad and pen (for notes, feeding logs)

Food to Carry

• Energy bars/granola bars
• Trail mix or nuts
• Crackers, biscuits
• Fresh or dried fruit
• Electrolyte drinks/coconut water
• Hard candies or mints
• Instant noodles or ready meals (if hospital allows)
• Dark chocolate or a treat you like

Utensils

• Spoon, fork, and knife (in a case or pouch)
• Small reusable bowl or plate
• Insulated travel mug
• Tiffin box/lunch box for partner
• Ziplock bags (for leftovers or storage)

Appliances

• Phone charger (extra-long cord recommended)
• Power bank
• Headphones or earbuds
• Tablet or Kindle
• Portable fan (for during labor)
• Small nightlight or dimmable torch
• Electric kettle (check hospital rules)
• Mini electric lunch box or food warmer (if needed)

For Birthing Partner

• Change of clothes
• Toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant, )
• Snacks and water
• Entertainment (book, tablet, )
• Blanket and pillow
• ID and phone charger
• List of contacts to update
• Cash or change for vending machines/parking
• Comfort items for labour (massage oil, stress ball)

Dealing with nausea can be challenging, but there are several methods to help alleviate it.

1.   Ginger

Ginger has long been considered a remedy for nausea, and research backs its effectiveness. Ginger can be consumed as tea, ginger chews, or capsules, or even added to food. It’s particularly effective in reducing nausea caused by sickness and pregnancy.

2.   Aromatherapy

Certain scents, particularly peppermint and lemon. The most common way to use aromatherapy for nausea is through a diffuser or essential oils directly inhaled. Peppermint oil is particularly popular for this use.

3.    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is typically used for mental health conditions, but it has also been found effective in managing nausea, especially when it’s anxiety- induced. Through CBT, patients can learn techniques to reduce anxiety and alter thoughts that may exacerbate nausea.

4.   Fasting or Intermittent Fasting

Though it may sound counterintuitive, some people find that nausea subsides when they give their digestive system a break, such as through fasting or intermittent fasting. The key is to avoid overloading the stomach with food when it’s sensitive.

• Evidence: Research has shown that intermittent fasting may help balance digestive system hormones, and for some individuals, it might help reduce nausea triggered by digestion.

5.    Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness meditation, where you focus on your breathing and body sensations, has been shown to reduce nausea, especially in cases where nausea is related to stress or anxiety. It can calm the mind and help lower the physiological response to nausea.

7.   Cold Compress

Using cold therapy, such as a cold compress or ice pack on the back of the neck or forehead, may help alleviate nausea. The cold sensation can sometimes interrupt the nausea signal, providing relief.

8.   Peppermint Tea or Lozenges

Peppermint is another herb that’s frequently recommended for nausea. It can relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and may help relieve the sensation of nausea.