So, the big day is nearly upon you. If you are more than 36 weeks pregnant, it's time to start thinking about what to pack in your labor bag. You do have one... right?

If not, rush out and buy one right now -- labor has a habit of sneaking up on us women!

The list that follows, is my compilation of labor bag essentials for the big day.

1.Insurance card

You don't want to get all the way to the hospital and then have to turn around and go all the way back for it!

2.Contact lens case and solution

In case of an emergency caesarean, you will need to remove your lenses before going to theatre.

3.Camera and phone with your phone number list

When baby's born you'll want to phone everyone you know, and take loads of photos.

4.Birth plan

During the throes of active labor, logic, and rational thought, tend to fly out the window. It helps to have a written record of your goal for this experience. It keeps you on track and away from those oh-so-tempting drugs that you swore you wouldn't need!

5.Books, magazines, puzzles and playing cards (for you and hubby)

You may be in for a long... long... wait. Make sure you pack in plenty of books, magazines, puzzles, playing cards -- whatever you like to do. And pack something for hubby too. You don't want him getting ratty and bored.

6.Candles, Music, Incense and Flowers

Put on some relaxing music, light some candles, fill the room with your favorite fragrance and put out some of your favorite flowers. The more relaxed you are in your environment, the easier the birth will be.

7.Birthing ball (if not supplied by the hospital)

Sitting on the ball during early labor, can encourage opening of the pelvis, ready for delivery. It's also great to lean on in a crouching position when active labor begins, allowing you to rest while maintaining a relatively upright position conducive to helping baby down the birthing canal.

8.Nutritious Snacks

Keep your energy levels up with a few wholesome nutritious snacks. Bananas are a good idea.

9.Change for the vending machine

No-one said hubby had to stay away from junk food!

10.Comfortable PJs or nightshirt and a dressing gown

While you are still in early labor, it's a good idea to change into something comfortable for the birth.

11.Bathing suit

If you are planning a water birth, you may want to change into a bathing suit -- or go naked. Your choice.

12.Wheat bag

During labor, your wheat bag can be a lifesaver -- make sure to keep your warm fuzzy friend with you.

13.Socks

For some reason, womens' feet get really cold during labor. Take your warmest, snuggliest socks with you.

14.Chap stick

An equally strange phenomenon, womens' lips tend to get really dry during active labor.

15.Massage oil

Put your partner to work by having him massage warm soothing oil into your lower back to relieve some of the pain during contractions.

16.Frozen drinks

By this stage of labor, you will be very hot and thirsty. Try to drink a sip at a time between contractions.

17.Preggie Pops

Many women become nauseous during the transition phase of labor. Preggie pops can help.

18.Hair ties

You'll want to keep any long hair out of your face when you start to perspire in the latter stages of labor.

19.Herbal spritzer and face cloth

Have your partner mist your face and arms between contractions, and apply a cool cloth to the back of your neck.

20.Something to focus on, for example, a favorite photo

The worst stage of labor for me was the transition phase. To help with the disorientation commonly experienced at this stage, take something with you to focus on.