17 year old mum

hey congratulations on your coming baby. I also just had mine last month. She's my 2nd baby and daughter. It truly would be a different feeling to have your first born, and at a very young age. However, dont worry, because I always believe mother instincts will come out when you need it. There are many references to hospital checklists, and here's one that I looked in to when I prepared for my bag. Check this out: http://www.babycenter.com.ph/pregnancy/labourandbirth/planningyourbabysbirth/whattopack/.

First of all, congratulations. The most important advice anyone could give you is to follow and trust your intuition. Of course read a lot, ask a lot but in the end your instincts will guide you quite well. As for your questions: Bring at least two nightshirts or Pyjamas (it is important that they can easily be opened at the front), at least two nursing-bras, shoes to wear inside (slippers or something). Many hospitals will provide clothing for the little one for while you are there, if so, you only need to take one outfit for when you leave the hospital (maybe two to be prepared for different weather conditions). If not, take maybe 10 outfits, prepare to change the baby 2 - 3 times a day (playsuits are best for the beginning). If you plan to use a babysling or something take it to the hospital with you just in case. Take somewhat more underwear than you think you need, you will bleed for a few weeks following the birth (no panic, this doesn't hurt at all, but it is more than what you are used to once a month). Now, I would pay attention to eating a lot of vitamins (fruit and vegetables plus ask your doctor regarding which vitamin pills you need). Read a lot, but take everything with a grain of salt. Don't eat milk products that aren't pasteurized or any fish or meat that isn't cooked through. Plan on who will pick you up from hospital and be sure that a safety-seat fr the baby is there if you go by car. I can't think of anything else at the moment, but if you have any further questions or need someone to talk, don't hesitate to give me a shout :) All the best!

Congratulations and I am sure it will all go well with you. I can't really help you with your questions but babies are wonderful although, I admit, I just have the fun making them and not the hard work of bringing them into this world. Love from Uncle Smacksman

Congratulations on your pregnancy. You should avoid lifting very heavy items. You should avoid eating an unhealthy diet. You must attend all your midwife appointments. You should eat a healthy diet and do light exercise like walking. If you are having a hospital birth you should take: a night dress for yourself, toiletries, clothing for your newborn baby, diapers, maternity pads, a car seat or a buggy suitable for a newborn to take your baby home in. Maybe you would like to have a few things to help you relax like a cuddly toy, a book to read, music to listen to and a couple of your favorite snacks. Essential things for your baby are somewhere for her to sleep like a cot and this will require bedding. You might feed your baby in the natural way or use bottles filled with formula. You will need a buggy suitable for your newborn baby to move her around. Your baby daughter will need diapers and clothes like baby grows and vests. I like ton have diaper wipes and bags to dispose the dirty or wet diapers in. A baby likes a few toys safe for that age range. Maybe friends and family will give you gifts when your daughter is born. Good luck.