Everything you actually need
Books, hospital bag essentials, and products worth buying, curated by a registered midwife and dietitian.
Books worth reading
Skip the overwhelm — these are the ones that actually help.
What to Expect When You're Expecting
Heidi Murkoff
The bible of pregnancy books. Week-by-week guidance on symptoms, nutrition, and what's happening with your baby, trusted by millions of moms worldwide.
Expecting Better
Emily Oster
An economist cuts through the noise on pregnancy rules. Evidence-based, refreshingly honest, and a must-read if you want to understand the actual data behind common advice.
Ina May's Guide to Childbirth
Ina May Gaskin
The go-to book for understanding natural birth. Full of real birth stories that build confidence, and practical guidance on working with your body during labour.
The Birth Partner
Penny Simkin
Written for partners, doulas, and support people, but a great read for moms too. Covers every stage of labor, comfort techniques, and how to advocate in hospital.
Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
Mayo Clinic
Medically authoritative and comprehensive. Great for reassurance when symptoms worry you — covers everything from conception to the first weeks postpartum.
The Fourth Trimester
Kimberly Ann Johnson
The postpartum book every pregnant woman should read before birth. Helps you prepare for recovery, identity shifts, and the emotional landscape of new motherhood.
The Happiest Baby on the Block
Harvey Karp
The 5 S's method for soothing a newborn. Simple, effective, and genuinely life-changing for exhausted new parents in those early weeks.
Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding
Ina May Gaskin
Warm, practical, and non-judgmental. Whether you're hoping to breastfeed or just want to understand your options, this covers latch, supply, and common challenges.
Hospital bag checklist
Pack from 36 weeks — babies don't always wait for you to be ready.
For you
- ✓Comfortable nightgown or robeFront-opening if you plan to breastfeed
- ✓Slippers and grip socksHospital floors are cold
- ✓Lip balmBreathing through contractions dries your lips fast
- ✓Hair ties and headbandYou'll want your hair off your face
- ✓ToiletriesToothbrush, shampoo, dry shampoo, face wash
- ✓Long phone charger cableOutlets are never where you need them
- ✓SnacksBring more than you think — and for your partner too
- ✓HeadphonesYour own playlist or hypnobirthing audio
- ✓Going-home outfitSomething loose — you'll still look 5–6 months pregnant
- ✓Nursing bra or crop topSoft and wireless for early days
- ✓Nipple creamStart using from day one if breastfeeding
- ✓Birth plan copiesBring 3–4 printed copies for the team
- ✓Insurance card and IDKeep them accessible, not buried in your bag
- ✓Pillow from homeHospital pillows are rough — a familiar scent helps too
For baby
- ✓Going-home outfit (two sizes)Pack both newborn and 0–3 months — you won't know until they arrive
- ✓Swaddle blankets ×2Muslin ones are breathable and easy to use
- ✓Newborn hatBabies lose a lot of heat through their head
- ✓Scratch mittsNewborns' nails are surprisingly sharp
- ✓Car seat (installed beforehand)Get it checked at a safe-fitting centre before your due date
For your birth partner
- ✓Change of clothesLabour can last a long time — they'll thank you
- ✓ToiletriesToothbrush at minimum
- ✓Their own snacks and drinksThey need energy to support you
- ✓Phone chargerFor updates to family and capturing first moments
- ✓CameraPhone is fine, but a camera with better low-light helps
- ✓CashVending machines, car park, coffee runs at 3am
- ✓Something to pass the timeEarly labour can be slow — a book, tablet, or cards
Must-have products
You don't need everything — but these are worth it.
Pregnancy pillow (U-shape)
Full-body support from the second trimester onwards. Side-sleeping becomes essential and a U-shaped pillow makes it actually comfortable.
Belly support band
Relieves lower back pain and round ligament pressure, especially in the third trimester. Great if you're on your feet a lot.
Stretch mark oil or cream
Won't guarantee prevention (genetics plays a big role), but keeping skin moisturised reduces itching as your belly grows.
Prenatal vitamins with folate
Look for methylfolate rather than folic acid, and check it includes iron, vitamin D, and omega-3s. Start before conception if possible.
Maternity and nursing bras
Your regular bras will stop fitting by mid-pregnancy. Wireless, soft-cup bras are most comfortable and transition into nursing use.
Baby monitor with camera
A video monitor lets you check on your baby without going into the room and breaking their sleep — and yours.
White noise machine
Mimics womb sounds and helps newborns settle. Also blocks household noise so they stay asleep longer.
Bedside bassinet
Safe sleep space that attaches to your bed for easy night feeds. Far easier than getting up to a cot across the room.
Baby carrier or wrap
Keeps your hands free while keeping baby calm. Wraps are great for newborns; structured carriers work better as they get heavier.
Electric breast pump
Even if you plan to exclusively breastfeed, having a pump gives you flexibility. Check if your insurance covers one before buying.
Baby bath seat and thermometer
A supportive bath seat and a bath thermometer (aim for 37–38°C) make newborn baths much less stressful.
Rectal thermometer
The most accurate way to take a newborn's temperature. Sounds daunting but quickly becomes routine — and essential knowledge for worried new parents.
All recommendations are genuine picks curated by our team. Links go directly to Amazon search results.