Time to start packing! As you approach your 9^th month, you probably have mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety to the big day.

As a mother who went through delivery twice, I can give you a practical list to follow:

• 2-4 comfortable gowns or pajamas

  Depending on whether you are having a natural birth or a caesarean section. It would be best if you can get the buttoned style, since you probably will breastfeed your little one.

• 4-5 underpants and nursing bras

  Choose panties that are high on the waist incase you will have a caesarean section.

• Socks

  You will need them especially if you have an epidural, because it can get you feeling cold at times.

• Robe and slippers

  As part of our Arab culture, you will probably have a lot of visitors coming in! A decent robe will be a lifesaver, so would a nice pair of slippers to use while you take your recommended daily walk.

• Toiletries

  A shampoo, conditioner, a shower gel, toothbrush and tooth paste.

• Massage oil or cream

  It’s always a plus to bring what can make you relax and feel calm; a scented foot massage can do exactly that!

• A comfortable outfit for getting back home

  When it gets time to leave the hospital, you could still be in pain. You also will have a belly that looks like you’re still pregnant in your 5^th month! But that’s perfectly normal; just make sure you bring very comfortable clothes.

• A Camera!

  Those moment are so precious, you will need your husband or family members to take some pictures of your special day and your beautiful baby.

• A nursing pillow

  it’s one of the things that I regret not bringing, it will help you breastfeed your baby in a more comfortable way, plus increase the odds of successfully breastfeeding since your child will be correctly facing your breast.

• Hairdryer

  After you take a shower you will need it to feel more refreshed, and you can style your hair the way that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful.

• Lip balm

  Your lips can get dry during your stay at the hospital; I kept it right beside my bed the whole stay.

You will also need to pack a bag for your baby

You may feel that I’m listing a lot of clothes, but don’t forget that babies during the first days can get themselves dirty many times during the day, it also depends on how many days you will be staying at the hospital:

• 3-5 one-piece baby pajamas.

• 3-5 body suits.

• 4 socks

• 4 mittens

• If it’s winter, bring a jacket or cardigan.

• 2-4 blankets for swaddling.

• 2 warm blankets.

• Safe car seat for new born: You might need to practice installing it a couple of times before the big day to ensure you are doing it the right way.

This is such a magical chapter of your life, embrace it and enjoy every moment. Years from now you will smile every time you remember it and you will be the one giving advice for the next mommy to be!