Best Books for Pregnancy
A resource list of the best pregnancy and childbirth related reading on the market today.
Are you looking for pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and early parenting books? Here are some of the best pregnancy-related books for parents available online.
As you wander along the rows and rows of pregnancy books in bookstores today, you might be overwhelmed by not only how much is available but whether or not the information is helpful.
Here is a resource list of recommended books to put on your wish list for baby shower or holiday gift-giving or just to prepare yourselves for being parents.
1. Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn by Simkin, Whalley and Kepplar
This is hands-down one of the best books and easiest reads for expectant parents. It is written from a consumer approach and the breadth of information is quite extensive.
2. The Birth Partner, by Penny Simkin
For anyone planning to assist the mother during labor, this book includes it all. This is a great book for fathers, partners, family and doulas.
3. The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth, by Henci Goer
This is a great book for a woman who is taking charge of her birth experience and interested in what the research says about birthing options. It covers nearly every issue that parents may include in a birth plan from an evidence-based perspective.
4. A Good Birth, a Safe Birth, by Korte and Scaer
This is an excellent book to help parents understand why childbirth has become such a medical event and how to negotiate your way through the system to have the kind of birth you want. This book is several years old however the information is timeless.
5. The Natural Pregnancy Book, by Aviva Jill Romm
This is one of my most-used books for herbs, tinctures, recipes and natural methods for the pregnant mother from treating a cold to starting labor to advice on good nutrition.
6. The Nursing Mother's Companion, by Kathleen Huggins
If you plan to breastfeed your baby and can only afford one book, this is the one to get. Included is answers to breastfeeding problems as well as techniques for breastfeeding.
7. Overcoming Postpartum Depression and Anxiety by Linda Sebastian
One of the most practical and informative books for mothers who are working through postpartum mood disorders.
8. The Happiest Baby on the Block by Dr. Harvey Karp
Clearly one of the easiest and most effective strategies for calming fussy babies and encouraging sleep, Dr. Karp's 5 S's are described in his book. Also available is a DVD.
Guidelines about Choosing Reading Materials
There are many books on the market today. Be careful that you read the author's short bio to get a flavor of their experience, philosophy and credentials. Read a segment of the first chapter. Read through the Table of Contents.
Is the content varied and extensive? Is the flavor of the book reader friendly and easy to read? Are they writing from purely a medical perspective? Or do they have more of a consumer based approach? Is the book outdated (i.e. written more than 5 years ago?) If so, look to see if there is a revised edition or select another title.
Are there any books you are thinking about purchasing? Feel free to ask me or other readers about the titles on the discussion forum.
What other books did you find helpful during your pregnancy? Share the ones you recommend with us on the forum.
