You have every chapter in What to Expect When You're Expecting (Workman Publishing, 2002) memorized, you make a daily check of every baby and pregnancy Web site on the Internet and your going-to-the-hospital suitcase is packed and waiting by the front door. You might feel as if you're adequately prepared for your impending arrival, but are you? Many new parents have spent nine months or longer researching so they'll be ready to bring their baby home, only to be surprised at how many supplies they're actually lacking on the big day.

No matter how many checklists are printed and tacked onto the refrigerator, you'll probably still find yourself running out of the house at some odd hour for a necessary baby item. While there will always be items to be purchased after the baby is born, there are many items you'll want to have in the house beforehand.

According to Theresa Halvorsen, a doula with Gentle Beginnings in Elk Grove, Calif., there are items a new mother will need in the house as soon as she returns home from the hospital. Sanitary napkins are necessary for the bleeding that is sure to occur as well as hemorrhoid pads and an ice pack to soothe a sore perineum.

Halvorsen also recommends moms stock up on nursing pads and nursing bras. And comfort is important. Be sure to have several pairs of pants featuring elastic waistbands and big, comfortable T-shirts to wear.

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