Getting prepared for labour

Giving birth is most probably the most exciting thing that will ever happen during a woman's life, and everybody seems to cope with it differently.  There is the worry of being able to cope, what if something goes wrong, what if I'm not near a hospital when it happens? It's best to be prepared for what's about to come, and there are lots of ways that you can get yourself ready for the big day.

• Have your hospital bag packed and ready to go - Labour can come on quickly for some people, and you may need to rush out of the door just so that you make it to the hospital in time. Having your bag ready is a must as you can just grab it and go. You can always send somebody home to get you some more bits if needed, so don't worry too much if you have forgotten something. Leave a spare set of keys with a relative or close friend just incase.
• Write up a birth plan - It's good to do your research and know what you want during your labour. Writing a birth plan allows the midwifes to get to know you a little better and understand how you want your labour to go. There's all different types of pain relief and ways to birth. You can also write down how you plan on feeding, who you want in the room with you and even things that you don't want to happen.
• Be Patient - For some women, labour can last for days and become a drag. You will be restless, pained, irritated, hot and so much more but just remember that there will be an end to it all and you will have your precious baby in your arms. You may go into the hospital and be sent back home again, this can be frustrating but understand that most hospitals only attend women that are in 'active labour.' If this happens to you then go home and try and stay comfortable, save all of your energy for when you really need it. Have a nice warm bath and try and get some sleep before your active labour starts.
• Prepare your birth partner - It's important to make sure you birth partner knows exactly how you want everything to go. While you are concentrating on your ever so strong contractions, they can be your second mouth if the midwife goes to do something that you don't want. Your birth partner can be so many things: Your DJ, your massager, waiter, undresser/changer, bather, messenger, shoulder to cry on or even just something to squeeze and crush. If your birth partner is the child's father, then try and get them as involved as possible.
• Don't Panic - They say that staying calm and controlling your breathing is a great source of pain relief, so try and keep calm at all times (I know this is easier said then done.) Ask your midwifes to explain everything to you so that you always understand what is happening. If you are worried about something or feeling anxious, let them help you and be open with them.

Do you have any tips about preparing for labour?