I had to stop reading the Mayo Clinic Pregnancy book. Then I had to stop reading What to Expect When You're Expecting. Then I had to stop reading blogs. Basically I stopped reading a lot more often than I finished a book about pregnancy and birth. It should NOT be this way.
That said, if you loved What to Expect or Mayo Clinic's Healthy Pregnancy, you aren't alone and you aren't wrong! They are best sellers for a reason. The below list is intended to help women who may be struggling with them and the information overload and subsequent anxieties that can occur. Reading is a really important part of getting ready for a baby, but trusting your body's amazing abilities and your baby's natural instincts are equally as important. I have found that some books can undermine those beliefs for many women and so am offering alternatives.
I wish I had know about some of the great, empowering books out there sooner and not read the standard (often fear inducing) stuff. Here are a few books and resources that I would recommend starting with:
Taking Charge of Your Fertility - countless women have talked to me about this book and how it helped them during an incredibly challenging journey with fertility issues.
From the Hips - On my reading list right now, so can't recommend it personally, but have heard from five mommas in the last week that this was their go to guide.
My Pregnancy Today App by Baby Center - one of the better apps for updates on your body and your baby.
The Big Book of Birth - written by a child birth educator, this book is an awesome, empowering and easy to digest guide to birthing your baby.
Ina May's Guide to Childbirth - the mother of birth, Ina May Gaskin, is well known for this book on unmedicated, empowering births. Two things to note from my perspective...first, the opening stories are helpful for a little context, but the meat of the book starts on page 127. Second, if your birth isn't Ina May approved that's ok. I've heard from some women who have felt "bad" that their births didn't live up to the stories and standards included. That is so far from the intention, I guarantee.
The Birth Partner - a book I wish I had read and had my husband read before the birth of our baby and is now a definite recommendation for all birth partners (and moms) I know.
Breastfeeding Made Simple - I read countless - I mean countless - books and blogs on breastfeeding. This is the only one you need. It's simple, straightforward, and comprehensive. Highly recommended by many IBCLCs, doulas, and milky mommas in my life.
What am I missing? Share some of your favorites below - always looking to learn more.
Love + Light (Reading),
Ali