I am frequently asked what books I recommend for expecting mommas. Here are some of my favorites! For those who are my clients, the books I have an ** by I have in my lending library and you are welcome to borrow them!
** The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer
** Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin
The Business of Being Born by Riki Lake and Abby Epstein
This isn't a book, but it is a huge part of the out of hospital birth and natural birth movement in the United States right now and I love it! It and the sequel (More Business of Being Born - 4 parts) can be found on Netflix or Amazon Prime Video usually.
** The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding
** What to Expect when your wife is Expanding
I debated putting this one on the list. It is certainly a bit irreverent but my husband found it hilarious and was a great conversation starter for the two of us when we were expecting our first baby. I wouldn't suggest it be the only thing your partner read as you prepare for birth, but it isn't bad!
** Hypnobirthing, the Morgan Method
If you're considering hypnobirthing as your preparation for childbirth, let me know!
** The Healthy Pregnancy Book by Dr. Sears
** Belly Laughs
Again with the internal debate on what to include on the list... I wouldn't recommend it as your only read by any means, but it's a fun book while you're expecting!
VBAC Books
In addition to the other books I have suggested, if you are considering or planning on a vaginal birth after cesarean I suggest these books specifically about VBAC.
** Cut, Stapled, Mended: When one woman reclaimed her body and gave birth on her own terms after cesarean by Roanna Rosewood
This book is exactly what the title would lead you to believe, it is about Roanna's journey to VBAC after a cesarean birth. This is one of the books I read as I trained to become a doula and I love it!
Cut it Out: The C-Section Epidemic in America by Theresa Morris
This book examines the exponential increase of cesarean birth in the United States and looks at the reasons for this trend in birth.
Silent Knife: Cesarean Prevention and Vaginal Birth After Cesarean
In 100% honesty, I haven't read this one yet - but it comes very highly recommended by my friends who have prepared for a vaginal birth after cesarean.
Some of the links to products may be affiliate links. This just means that if you make a purchase from one of these links I may receive a small percentage of your purchase. It does not cost you extra.