What To Expect At The Maternity Hospital: A Parent’s Guide
The day you head to the maternity hospital is one filled with excitement, anticipation, and often a little nervous energy. Whether it’s your first baby or you’ve been through birth before, preparing for this moment can make the experience smoother and less overwhelming. In our recent Parenthood in Focus podcast, we explored what expectant parents can expect when it’s time to meet their baby.
Preparing for the Hospital
Preparation is key. Having a hospital bag packed in advance helps you feel ready when labour begins. Essential items include comfortable clothes for you and baby, snacks, toiletries, phone chargers, and any comfort items such as a pillow or favourite blanket.
It’s also important to mentally prepare for birth. A positive mindset can help calm nerves and set the tone for your experience. Many mums find that using Birth Affirmation Cards, like the beautifully designed set from Mama’s Boobie Box, can be a powerful way to stay focused and empowered. Each card features uplifting messages that remind you of your strength and resilience, offering encouragement when you need it most. These can be packed into your hospital bag, placed around the delivery room, or read aloud by your birth partner during labour.
Discuss your birth preferences with your partner or birth companion and familiarise yourself with hospital policies. Remember, flexibility is key—birth doesn’t always follow the script, so having an open mind is vital.
The Journey to the Maternity Ward
The journey to the hospital is often one of the most emotional stages. Many parents describe the car ride as the moment when everything “becomes real.”
Have a plan for transport ahead of time, including alternative routes in case of traffic. If you’re feeling anxious, try focusing on your breathing or listening to calming music. Reading your favourite affirmation card before leaving home can also help you stay calm and centred, setting a positive tone for what’s ahead.
What Happens When You Arrive
Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the admissions desk and be taken to the assessment area. Midwives will check your vital signs, baby’s heartbeat, and the progress of your labour.
This is also the stage where you can discuss any concerns or preferences. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—knowing what’s happening step by step can make the process feel less overwhelming.
Support During Labour
Your support team—whether it’s your partner, doula, or another companion—plays a huge role. They can help you stay calm, advocate for your wishes, and offer practical support like massage, breathing cues, or simply holding your hand.
Having a birth plan can help guide decisions, but staying flexible is important. Birth affirmation cards can also play a role here, with your partner reading them aloud to keep you focused and motivated throughout contractions.
The Delivery Room Experience
The delivery room can seem intimidating, but it’s a space designed to support you and your baby. Your care team will guide you through each stage of labour, offering pain relief options if needed.
Remember to focus on your breathing, lean on your support system, and embrace the incredible moment ahead—the first time you meet your baby.
Meeting Your Baby
Once your baby arrives, you’ll usually have the opportunity for skin-to-skin contact, which helps regulate their temperature and heart rate while promoting bonding. Midwives will carry out initial checks while you and your partner soak in those first precious moments.
Final Tips & Encouragement
Every birth experience is unique, and it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. Preparation, flexibility, and open communication with your care team can make a huge difference.
Packing items that bring you comfort—like Mama’s Boobie Box Birth Affirmation Cards—can provide emotional strength, helping you feel empowered and supported every step of the way.
Trust yourself: you are stronger and more capable than you realise.
