Do not 'labor' over hospital stay.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Brief article

When getting ready for your baby's arrival, you can stay one step ahead by having your hospital bag prepared for an unexpected early delivery. You should start once you are eight months along so that you will be ready to go at a moment's notice, advises Nicole Zoellner, founder of Nizo Wear nursing bras. Remember, you will want to get comfortable while at the hospital and there will be things you will need after you give birth.

Here are some items Zoellner recommends be brought along:

* Slippers and a robe. Hospitals provide gowns, but bringing your own will make you feel more at home. A loose, short sleeved robe will be more convenient for getting blood pressure checked. Slippers will keep your swollen feet feeling comfortable.

* Birth plan. It can state whether you want an epidural, who you want in the room with you, your ideal birthing environment, plans for breastfeeding, etc.

* Notebook. It will come in handy when you have questions to ask the nurse and want to write down all of the information that the pediatrician is giving you. You also may want to track your newborn's feeding sessions and keep notes on the details of the baby's birth and first few days.

* Outfit for going home. It should be loose fitting and comfortable. Also, having a few different clothes to change into while at the hospital can feel...