The world of books to read when pregnant (or considering getting pregnant - or even after a loss) is overwhelming. I have read MANY on the subject and this is the list of must reads for every woman.
The books listed here are also a part of my lending library for Doula Clients. If you are interested in borrowing any of these, please e mail me and let me know.
Ina May's Guide To Childbirth -
Along with her books "Spiritual Midwifery" and "Ina May's Guide To Breastfeeding" - both also GREAT reads - Ina May brings us what I think is the best book ever written for any woman embarking on the journey of motherhood. Whether it is your first pregnancy or your ninth, this book takes you on an an incredible, inspiring and easy to comprehend journey. If you read ONE book to prepare for birth, I hope that it would be this one.
Birthing From Within: An Extra-Ordinary Guide To Childbirth Preparation -
This book is pretty similar to my style of doula-ing the parents to be. It is focused on the journey into parenthood as much as the physiological process of birth and labor. It involves creative exercises, asks all the right questions and poses the right scenarios to parents to be in order to truly prepare them for their birth as parents.
Your Best Birth -
From the same people that brought you "The Business Of Being Born" - a must see for all women - This is a great companion book to the movie that covers possible procedures and outcomes and empowers women to make fully informed choices. Helps women know all the facts so she can build the best birth plan for the best experience.
Preparing For Birth With Yoga -
Yoga is a wonderful and productive way to prepare your body for birth, facilitate good positioning of the baby and will even be an asset to you IN the birthing process. This book goes into great detail. It covers positions through each trimester into birth and postpartum and also goes into the philosophy behind yoga and facilitates connection to your baby, strengthening your bond and helping you communicate with your baby - and your body.
