

So what things could be on your list of things to prepare?
Your maternity notes and birth preference sheets
Plastic sheets (cheap decorators sheets from a DIY shop are great) to protect floors, sofas and beds, so you can move around freely without worrying
Soft covers like old sheets or towels to go on top of the sheets
If using a pool, a few towels for you and a few smaller towels for baby
Incontinence sheets to place wherever you might sit or lie during or after the birth (easily disposable)
Bin bags for rubbish and any washing
A tub or bucket for if you need to be sick- common during labour
Tea, biscuits and fruit for the midwives
A packed hospital bag, for if you need to transfer to hospital at any point.
Birth pools are the most common at-home comfort measure, but you can use your bath or shower too. I recommend Birth Pool In a Box.
Hot-water bottle for your back or tummy during early labour
TENS machine (can be hired from the birth pool company or bought from Amazon or Boots)
Affirmation cards to help you focus your mind
Music- calming or uplifting, anything goes! Familiar is key
Candles, low lighting, fairy lights
Snacks and hydrating drinks (See this Instagram post for our labour aid!)
Birth ball (a regular exercise ball) to help you to keep upright, forward and open
Lavender oil (or clary sage) either diffused through an electric diffuser or candle burner, as a room or pillow spray
Eye mask to help you to get some rest if you are labouring in the day
Large sanitary towels/maternity pads
Big black knickers- the bigger the better! Supermarket multipacks are my recommendation
Nappies
A vest and baby-gro which have been warmed on a radiator
Plenty of frozen meals ready to pop in the oven for the following 2 weeks
You can also read our guide on Instagram for all things home birth here.
Are you planning a home birth? Feel free to add any more suggestions in the comments box or ask questions!
Finally, download our new app My Mindful Midwife to support you on your pregnancy and birth journey! It includes a handy oxytocin friendly wave (contraction) timer to help you see when to call your midwife. Available on the App Store and Google Play.
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