There is nothing to fully prepare you for the joys, challenges, and emotions that come with being a mother or a parent, but there are a number of steps you can take while pregnant to help you feel more prepared. You should make sure you have your hospital bag packed and ready to grab and go at least three weeks before your due date – just in case you go into labour unexpectedly or early. You should also have purchased all of the baby essentials and set up and stocked your nursery. You can download our handy baby checklist to help you get everything you need for your exciting new arrival. It’s also important that you are prepared for labour and have an idea of your birthing plan. As with anything during pregnancy, there is no guarantee that everything will go to plan, but it’s good to feel prepared. So, whether you want a home or hospital birth, make sure you have discussed your preferred choice with your doctor/midwife