Preparing for the birth of a baby can feel like a monumental task but thankfully, with the tools and books available, it can be made a little less daunting. Here are 5 of the most popular and informative books to read during pregnancy in preparation for the arrival of your baby:
What to Expect When You’re Expecting
By Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel
This book has been around for a while, being first published in 1984 and has since become one of the authoritative books about pregnancy. This book is the best for couples who are expecting their first baby, as it covers all the bases including week by week developments from start to finish.
Belly Laughs: The Naked Truth about Pregnancy and Childbirth
By Jenny McCarthy
New parents should know that with pregnancy comes a range of different emotions. McCarthy provides an entertaining take on her own experiences, with personal stories which include the highs and lows of labour. This book is full of humorous anecdotes and is great for lifting the spirits during pregnancy and keeping things light, whilst still being educational.
The Pregnancy Bible: Your Complete Guide to Pregnancy and Early Parenthood
By Joanne Stone and Keith Eddleman
This comprehensive book is filled with support and advice from experts in the field of pregnancy and childbirth, including doctors, midwives and nurses. It is jam-packed full of facts and information, from fertilisation and fetal development, the stages of labour, to recovery and postpartum.
The Positive Birth Book: A New Approach to Pregnancy, Birth and the Early Weeks
By Milli Hill
This book is all about providing much needed support to any pregnant women and couples, as it focuses on reducing stress during and just after pregnancy, via the guidance of yoga, relaxation and meditation techniques.
Pregnancy and Birth Book
By William Sears and Martha Sears
This well-rounded book is held in high regard and is trusted by many parents during the prenatal period and beyond. In this book, William and Martha offer an evidence-based approach to understanding pregnancy and childbirth and cover a range of topics such as pregnancy nutrition and the needs of a new baby.
No matter which of these books you decide to read, you are sure to find the information you are looking for in a format that suits you and your partner best. Each of these books to read during pregnancy has its own strengths and can help prepare for the upcoming arrival of your baby. If you find that you need a little more guidance, prenatal classes are also a good source of reliable information during pregnancy. They also allow you to meet other expecting parents or mothers. Above all else, do your own research, ask questions, and trust your instincts when it comes to your own pregnancy and parenting.
