As you enter the last month of your pregnancy, it's time to start preparing your hospital bag. It's good to pack your hospital bag 2-3 weeks before your due date because once you start getting those contractions, your mind would be too occupied with labor anxiety to think about the bag. So, let me help you in getting ready for the hospital.

Your hospital bag should contain the following:

• Personal identification card and health insurance card.
• Your phone diary.
• Watch containing a second hand for timing your contractions.
• Calling card (cell phones are prohibited in most hospitals).
• Your birth plan copy.
• Lip balm (your lips tend to dry up when pushing).
• Water bottles.
• Snacks.
• Slippers/socks for keeping your feet warm.
• Robe or night gown, if you don't wish to don those hospital clothes.
• An outfit for going home after pregnancy delivery (Choose attire that you had worn when you were in the fifth month of pregnancy. Tight outfit still have time).
• Nursing bras and nursing pads.
• Blanket for baby.
• An outfit for baby.
• Baby book to get her footprints.
• Music or CD's.
• A novel or magazine to read, in case you are in the hospital for long.
• Camera and/or camcorder.
• Personal hygiene things such as tooth brush, tooth paste, comb, shampoo, soaps, and so on.

Some women like to pack two bags - one for delivery and the other for post partum. The latter contains your and your baby's outfit, make-up items, a pair of socks, and a camera. Usually, the contents of your bag depend on your preferences and tastes. However, things like personal identification and insurance cards, and birth plan copies are a must.

One of my friends had packed massage oils in her hospital bag. How calm and relaxed you feel when your partner gives you a massage on your back and feet! It helps during delivery too.

And please, no fashions at this time! GIVING BIRTH IS A MESSY PROCESS. So, when you pack your undergarments, keep that lace underwear at home because you will spoil then from the heavy lochia (bleeding) that takes place after delivery. And no tight jeans yet! Your body should be utmost comfortable after working so hard bringing out a new life. So, go for loose and comfortable clothing.

PUT YOUR HOSPITAL BAG IN THE CAR YOU PLAN TO TAKE TO THE HOSPITAL MUCH BEFORE TIME, OR ELSE YOU WILL FORGET THE BAG AT THE LAST HOUR AMIDST LABOR PAINS!