This post may contain affiliate links to items I love, and I am confident you will too! All opinions are my own, however, I may receive a small commission on purchases. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For any health advice I give on nutrition and weight loss, make sure you check with your doctor, as I am not a health professional.
According to Miss Universe contestant, Miss Sushmita Sen, when she was asked, “What for you is the essence of being a woman?” She then replied, “Being a woman is like a gift given by God that each must appreciate. A mother is from whom a child originated, who is a woman. She then shows a man what sharing, caring, and loving aspects are all about. And that is the essence of being a woman.” A developing baby in the womb is an absolute opportunity and the greatest gift for a new mother!
My first pregnancy made me realize that children are our most precious treasures that no one could ever steal. In my early motherhood, postpartum depression became my worst enemy. To combat this, I helped myself out by making my mental health stable. I made myself busy, I tried plenty of things like working out, writing content, cooking, trying and exploring new things, and reading the best books. Reading birth books numerous times was a great way to catch my attention and learn from those who have already been through what I was going through.
A lot of pregnancy books in the market with complete guides are highly anticipated by first-time parents. With our modern-time progress, the latest research shows that many expectant mothers rely more on the best pregnancy books for expert advice that may result in a healthy pregnancy.
Years passed and I can still remember my first morning sickness that I almost puked my soul out, associated with my untamed mood swings. As new parents, we are devoted to following the 40-week pregnancy calendar as it provides detailed information before raising our little ones. This blog will give you my easy-to-read, favorite books for new pregnancies and provide you with practical advice for the best decisions about natural birth and parenting.
1. Ina May’s Guide to Child Birth
“Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth” is a great book known for its positive and empowering view of childbirth promotion. It advocates for the natural and physiological aspects of labor and delivery, emphasizing the capabilities of women’s bodies. The book encourages women to trust their instincts, focus on relaxation, and consider the emotional and psychological aspects of childbirth.
The book offers valuable insights and perspectives, individual preferences and experiences with childbirth can vary. Some women find Ina May Gaskin’s approach empowering and supportive of their birthing choices, while others may prefer different approaches to childbirth. As with any pregnancy and childbirth resource, it’s advisable to discuss the information with healthcare providers and make informed decisions based on individual circumstances.
2. The Positive Birth Book: A New Approach to Pregnancy Birth and the Early Weeks
“The Positive Birth Book” is a book written by Milli Hill, a British author and advocate for positive birth experiences. The book is designed to empower and inform expectant parents, providing them with a comprehensive guide to childbirth while promoting a positive and empowering approach to the process. The book also emphasizes the importance of empowering women and their birth partners to make informed decisions about their childbirth experiences. It encourages individuals to take an active role in their birth plans and choices.
3. Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong—and What You Really Need to Know.
Economist Emily Oster wrote a practical book titled “Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong—and What You Really Need to Know.” The book was published in 2013 and has gained popularity for its data-driven approach to pregnancy advice. In “Expecting Better,” Emily Oster reviews common pregnancy guidelines and recommendations, examining the scientific evidence behind them. She aims to empower pregnant women to make informed decisions based on a critical evaluation of the available data.
4. Orgasmic Birth: Your Guide to a Safe, Satisfying, and Pleasurable Birth Experience
Debra Pascali-Bonaro and Elizabeth Davis co-authored a book titled “Orgasmic Birth: Your Guide to a Safe, Satisfying, and Pleasurable Birth Experience.” “Orgasmic Births” advocates for a holistic approach to pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. It incorporates elements of emotional well-being, intimacy, and spiritual aspects of the birthing process. This book published in 2010, explores the concept of childbirth as a joyful and empowering experience. Furthermore, the book explores various natural childbirth options, including home birth, water birth, and midwifery care. It encourages each pregnant woman to make informed choices that align with their preferences.
5. Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
The authors of this book are pregnancy experts at the Mayo Clinic. This modern guide is known for providing a comprehensive and evidence-based guide on pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Information on prenatal care, including what to expect during each trimester, common discomforts, and guidelines for a healthy pregnancy demonstrates the Mayo Clinic’s authoritative and reliable medical advice, presented in a way that is accessible to everyone.
6. Hypnobirthing: Practical Ways to Make Your Birth Better
In her book, Siobhan Miller, the founder of The Positive Birth Company, dispels common hypnobirthing myths and argues for its efficacy in enhancing various birthing experiences, be it a home water birth or an unexpected cesarean. Hypnobirthing, she explains, is evidence-based and logical antenatal education, not involving hypnosis but focusing on understanding the body’s labor processes and utilizing relaxation techniques for a more efficient and comfortable birth. Siobhan’s advice transforms your mindset, providing practical tools for a calm and controlled birthing experience. The book promises to leave you feeling relaxed, capable, and genuinely enthusiastic about the upcoming birth.
7. The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth
“The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth” by Sheila Kitzinger is a comprehensive guide that covers various aspects of pregnancy and childbirth. It provides information on prenatal care, the stages of labor, childbirth options, and postpartum care. Kitzinger’s approach is holistic, emphasizing the emotional, cultural, and social aspects of childbirth.
This book is designed to empower expectant parents with knowledge and understanding, encouraging them to make informed choices throughout the pregnancy and birthing process. It addresses common concerns, offers a practical guide, and explores different birthing options, making it a valuable resource for those first-time moms preparing for parenthood.
8. Real Food for Pregnancy
A book written by Lily Nichols, a registered dietitian and nutritionist. This wonderful book, published in 2018, focuses on providing an evidence-based guide that provides nutritional, practical advice and guidance for expecting parents. The book emphasizes the importance of consuming nutrient-dense, whole foods during pregnancy to support the health of both the mother and the healthy baby.
Nichols challenges some traditional dietary recommendations for pregnant women and provides evidence-based arguments for her alternative approach to nutrition during pregnancy. A right book that addresses the topic of gestational diabetes and provides insights into managing blood sugar levels through dietary choices.
9. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Series (3 book series)
This pregnancy guide is a quick, accessible read for expectant mothers eager to cultivate healthy habits promptly. It offers a range of options, best ways, and adaptations, empowering you to tailor these practices to your preferences. The purpose of this guide is to demystify the advice to “listen to your body” by providing actionable ways to interpret and respond to its cues.
This book emphasizes the inherent capabilities of your body during pregnancy. Geared toward women contemplating or currently experiencing pregnancy, this resource extends its benefits to those who’ve had children in the past or even those who don’t plan to become pregnant. The healthy habits outlined are universally beneficial. Authored by pelvic floor physical therapist Jen Torborg, this guide offers pregnancy insights grounded in research and clinical experience.
10. The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth
The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth, authored by the renowned blogger and YouTube personality Genevieve Howland, offers an empowering and modern approach for expectant mothers. Providing weekly insights on nutrition, natural remedies, and interventions, this comprehensive guide enables women to take control of their pregnancy and childbirth experience.
With inspiring stories from diverse backgrounds and expert insights from a Certified Nurse Midwife, Registered Nurse, doula, and lactation consultant, the book is essential for those seeking a positive and well-informed natural pregnancy journey.
11. Belly Laughs 10th-Anniversary edition
Author, Angela Garbes, writes an extensive exploration of pregnancy and motherhood. Delving into diverse subjects including the placenta, labor, breastfeeding, and more, Garbes melds thorough research with personal narratives. With a blend of humor and a reverence for the female body, she dispels myths, guides women through the transformative journey of motherhood, challenges antiquated assumptions, and advocates for enhanced care and support.
12. Like a Mother
Enter a profound exploration of pregnancy and motherhood through the insightful and feminist lens of Angela Garbes. Addressing topics ranging from the placenta to labor and breastfeeding, Garbes melds thorough research with her own experiences. With humor and an appreciation for the female body, she debunks myths, assists women in navigating this transformative journey, questions outdated beliefs, and promotes enhanced care and support.
13. Spiritual Midwifery
The author of this book, Ina May Gaskin, is a renowned midwife and proponent of natural childbirth, a book that was initially published in 1975. Over time, it has achieved classic status within the realms of midwifery and childbirth education. Gaskin is the co-founder of The Farm Midwifery Center in Tennessee, where she and her team have overseen and recorded numerous women’s childbirth experiences. This woman produces great books!
14. Cribsheet
This publication serves as an extensive guide for expectant mothers seeking natural and holistic strategies to address diverse pregnancy-related issues. Emphasizing the importance of doulas and their positive impact on childbirth, the book covers a spectrum of topics, including physical discomforts and the exploration of inner thoughts and fears. It offers practical health information and spiritual exercises, providing expectant mothers valuable insights and preparations for impending motherhood.
15. The Big Fat Activity Book for Pregnant People
A humorous and engaging activity book designed for expectant mothers with a sense of humor. Packed with entertaining elements such as quizzes, mazes, fill-in-the-blanks, journaling pages, and amusing reflections on the reality of pregnancy. It includes word finds on restricted items, humorous takes on baby names, and quizzes like “Identify the Unique $1500 Stroller.” This baby book offers comfort, camaraderie, amusement, and perhaps even profound insights into life during pregnancy. Another activity to give each mother an exciting time to experience!
16. The Baby Owner’s Manual
An extensive and user-friendly manual on the technology associated with newborn care, “The Baby Owner’s Manual” presents detailed instructions and illustrative diagrams addressing numerous common queries about childcare. Covering topics ranging from swaddling and sleep training to medical appointments, the step-by-step guides, authored by renowned pediatrician Dr. Louis Borgenicht and his son Joe, provide valuable insights for parents navigating the challenges of caring for a newborn.
17. 50 Things to Do Before You Deliver
“50 Things to Do Before You Deliver” serves as a pragmatic pregnancy guide tailored for first-time moms. Authored by Jill Krause, the mind behind the acclaimed blog Baby Rabies, the book distills essential and practical advice while omitting extraneous information. Offering 50 trimester-specific tasks, innovative technological suggestions, and unbiased guidance from experienced mothers and experts, this resource is designed to empower and equip you for the stages of pregnancy and beyond.
18. Birth Without Fear
One of my pregnancy book recommendations, empowering both mothers and their partners, ‘Birth Without Fear’ serves as a comprehensive and inclusive guide spanning from pregnancy to postpartum. Penned by the founder of the global online community Birth Without Fear, this book addresses crucial aspects often overlooked in conventional pregnancy literature, including medical freedom and postpartum depression.
Additionally, it provides valuable insights for partners, fostering a deeper understanding of the maternal experience and offering guidance on supportive roles. Challenge established notions surrounding pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period through this accessible and motivational guide.
19. Work. Pump. Repeat.
Balancing breastfeeding with professional responsibilities can pose challenges, yet it need not be overwhelming. “Work. Pump. Repeat.” presents a practical and relatable guide, offering solutions, advice, and humor for mothers navigating the intricacies of pumping while working.
Authored by Jessica Shortall, the book draws on her personal experiences and those of fellow working mothers. It provides valuable insights for managing demanding situations such as business travel and pumping in less-than-ideal locations. This publication serves as an invaluable roadmap for women successfully juggling the demands of both a career and motherhood.
20. What to Eat When You’re Pregnant
This guide, organized by trimester, provides expectant mothers with a thorough overview of optimal nutrition during pregnancy and lactation, aiming to promote the well-being and development of both mother and baby. Accompanied by 50 delectable recipes, the emphasis of the book lies in highlighting recommended foods for each stage of pregnancy, as opposed to discouraging specific food items. It incorporates recent findings from the fields of medicine, nutrition, and psychology to offer valuable insights into the dietary choices expectant mothers should consider. A perfect page book and a good idea in one!
You have the full potential to be a wonderful mother, and responsible parent, and take good care of your baby’s growth! Each momma has their unique challenges, gifts, and desires. I recommend picking a few of these books and creating your journey by borrowing from each book once you learn more. I wish you the best of luck and health for you, your baby, and your family!
