What to bring to the hospital?

Now that it is time for me to pack my hospital bag, does anybody have any special tips for how to elevate my Queen Mary experience to the Four Seasons? I am already bringing my own pillows, food and portable DVD player. Any other suggestions?

Rubber ring to sit on after the inevitable episiotomy...

Thanks for all your posts -- it turned out that I couldn't use your advice because I WENT INTO LABOUR BEFORE I GOT TO SEE YOUR REPLIES!!


Our beautiful baby boy was born four weeks earlier than expected, but is healthy and blooming.


Now that I have been through the QM experience myself, here are some suggestions for bits and pieces that made my stay a little more comfortable:


1) A portable DVD player. Stock up on a TV series you have always wanted to watch. Best investment ever;

2) Your own pillow;

3) Eye patches;

4) Breastfeeding camisoles that you can sleep in aswell as to wear during the day;

5) Trashy magazines;

6) Ear plugs but I found my iPod more useful & soothing;

7) Bedroom slippers;

8) All the toiletries you would need if you were going away for a weekend;

9)Maternity pads;

10)Mobile phone & charger; and finally for all those visitors and photographs --

11)Lipstick!

Thanks Cara!