1. Look around your home and think about where you might be most comfortable in labour.

 

2. Are you planning to have a birth pool? Find an area the pool can be inflated where your midwives and support people can access you from all sides. 

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3. Find a clean table top or floor space where the midwives can set-up their newborn care equipment. This area should be close to where you think you will labour most. 

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4. Set up your bed with protective plastic sheets. Strip your bed completely. Lay down one plastic sheet on the mattress. Lay down a fitted sheet overtop. Add another layer of plastic sheeting, then an additional fitted sheet overtop. 

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5. Make sure to have lots of towels, face clothes and receiving blankets ready and nearby. 

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6. Choose a bowl you are okay for the midwives to put your placenta in after delivery. 

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7. Set up your bathroom with maternity pads, peri bottle, and sits bath for after birth perineal care. 

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8. Have diapers and a newborn hat available. 

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9. Snacks! Don't forget to prepare light snacks you might want throughout labour. Fruit is an excellent option. Have a cup with a straw available. 

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10. Make sure entry-ways are clear and accessible if additional ambulance support is needed. 

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