Pregnancy is a wonderful time, full of changes and new experiences – but this can also mean that it can be a time of unease, and never quite knowing if what you are feeling is normal. They do say that knowledge is power, and aside from treating yourself to some beautiful new maternity clothes from Seraphine, many women find that reading up on pregnancy helps them to feel more prepared for the inevitable changes to come.
There are books to help with every aspect of pregnancy from morning sickness to labour. Of course the internet is a fantastic resource, but nothing beats snuggling up in your favourite maternity jumper and settling down with a real book in your hands!
Everyone experiences pregnancy differently, so we’ve rounded up a few of our old favourites and some new bestsellers as our suggestions to you, and you can make up your mind which ones are right to help you through your pregnancy.
What to Expect When You’re Expecting – by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel
This is a real pregnancy classic and has been reprinted time and time again to impart fresh advice to new generations of mothers.
It takes you through your pregnancy month by month and also has a special section for frequently asked questions that could prove invaluable when you wake up in the middle of the night in a panic about something that could be a completely normal feature of pregnancy.
Birth and Beyond – by Dr Yehudi Gordon
In his bestselling tome, the gynaecologist addresses pregnancy as well as the first nine months of the baby’s life – and it’s aimed at dads as well as mums!
This is great for parents who are looking into both conventional and complementary techniques for bringing up baby and the A to Z section is sure to be well thumbed once your baby is toddling.
The Day-by-Day Pregnancy Book – edited by Dr Maggie Blott
Anyone who grew up with Dorling Kindersley books will know that they are renowned for their excellent photographs and diagrams and this one is no exception. It’s remarkably detailed and clear – and the hour-by-hour rundown of one woman’s labour is a stand-out plus point. Full of advice from experts, you’ll definitely want to keep this one on the bedside table for reference.
Your Pregnancy Bible – by Anne Deans
As the name suggests, this book aims to be a comprehensive guide to all aspects of pregnancy and birth, and is especially good for its chapters on the health and wellbeing of the mother.
It has been reprinted numerous times so is fully updated and has received some excellent reviews over the years.
The New Contented Little Baby Book – by Gina Ford
Love her or loathe her, Gina Ford is a fixture on the bookshelves of mums up and down the country. Some swear by her techniques and others insist they don’t work at all, so you might want to give this book a read and see for yourself where you stand. Her methods are based on routine so could be ideal if you like order – and you may find you’re converted if your baby starts sleeping through the night!
Hopefully this has provided you with a few ideas. And of course, never forget that a mother’s instincts are a powerful thing, so you don’t have to follow the advice given in the books if you don’t agree with it.
Finally, it is always wise to ask the advice of your GP or health visitor before making any changes to your routine, just to be on the safe side. Happy reading!
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