Babies: Pregnancy & Childbirth: Preparations

This section is designed to offer information on preparations for your new baby.

For further information on pregnancy and childbirth, refer to the pregnancy and childbirth areas

Shopping:

• Refer to the Babies: Shopping for baby section for checklists of small items to buy for your baby
• Refer to the Babies: equipment section for a suggested checklist of large items (such as furniture, prams, cots etc. ) to buy for your baby
• The Babies: Baby shops section has information on baby stores where you can purchase baby items in readiness for your new arrival

Classes & Exercise :

You may wish to attend ante natal classes before the birth of your baby. Your local hospital will be able to provide you with details of classes.

In addition there are a number of other classes which focus on childbirth techniques or health and fitness in pregnancy to strengthen the body in preparation for the birth.

For example you may wish to consider aquanatal classes, prenatal yoga or pilates, or perhaps gentle exercises at home (especially pelvic floor exercises). Do take the advice of your health professional to ensure it is safe for you to undertake exercise before commencing any exercise regime.

• Aquanatal
  • Prenatal aerobics in water
  • Blacktown Leisure Centre, corner Sentry Dr & Stanhope Pkwy, Stanhope Gardens
  • Ph: 9421 2600
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What to Take to Hospital:

• Pregnancy health record card
• 1-2 Large T shirts
• Nightdress/PJ's
• Dressing gown
• Slippers
• Socks
• Disposable underwear or large old knickers
• Clothing - suggest front opening shirts for breastfeeding, T shirts, comfortable trousers eg leggings
• Bras - nursing bras for breastfeeding
• Toiletries & tissues, hairdryer etc
• Money for incidental items such as newspapers etc
• Pen and paper/address book/contact numbers
• 3 packs maternity pads
• 2 boxes nursing pads
• Nappies for baby - disposable or cloth (unless provided by hospital)
• Bottles, teats & formula (if not breastfeeding)
• Clothes & wrap for baby (for going home)
• Car seat/capsule - correctly fitted in car (see Babies Health & Safety)
• Camera/video recorder/tapes (charge battery in advance)
• ipod/music CDs/radio
• Snacks & swimmers for partner for birth
• Support person
• Hot packs/water spray for birth
• Hair brush & clips/scrunchy
• Lollies
• Moisturiser & lipbalm
• Towel (for car in case water breaks etc)
• Sick bag (for car)

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