Human birth has been around far, far longer than anesthesiologists and epidurals, by tens of thousands of years. And the human race was able to successfully procreate that entire time. There is still so much about labor and delivery that is a mystery to modern science (no one can say for sure what begins labor, for example). And the exact interplay of hormones that goes on is nuanced and not completely understood. If there is a certain amount of cortisol in a newborn baby it is probably supposed to be there. It most likely serves an important purpose. Being born is stressful for the baby, too, not just mom. I mean, your skull folds over itself just so you can be squeezed through a tube like toothpaste. With this latest pregnancy, I found I referred to the book less. Several of the later chapters did not apply to me and I only referred to the book to see how big the baby was each week.

I agree with many other reviewers that the book seems highly negative...to me it wasn't just what could go wrong, but what you, mom, shouldn't do. It feels like every chapter is just a list of don'ts. And while I agree a pregnant person probably should take illicit drugs, hearing it 4 different times in the first 6 chapters starts to get really obnoxious. Even basic stuff like don't gain too much weight over and over again is making my internal rebellious teenager start screaming. I've had this book since 2006 when my first baby was due. I remember enjoying the content and I found the information in the book helpful and it answered a lot of questions I had. The authors include helpful hints for dads and each chapter covers how big your baby is and how your body is changing. Whether you're an expectant twin mom, an LGBTQ+ parent-to-be, or experiencing pregnancy after a loss, there’s a pregnancy book out there to accompany you on your journey. There are also several types of books depending on what you're looking for, from thorough, scientific guides like Expecting Better to options that provide lighthearted relief, like Say No to Placenta Pics. Choose a book that suits you and your taste—you’ll be more likely to read it and absorb the information if you connect with the content. Your Questions, Answered What books should I read when trying to conceive?

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Stunning illustrations show the baby forming from the moment of conception, and key developments for every trimester I’ve never read a pregnancy and childbirth book that spoke so much about contraception and abortion. I don’t really know what to make of that.

Hot tubs and heating pads: You could cook your baby to death or fry them with low level eletromagnetic fields! BULLSHIT.The best pregnancy books are based on the latest medical guidelines and scientific research. They provide thorough information on all aspects of pregnancy, from conception through delivery and caring for a newborn. They should also be easy to read and written in an understandable way, as well as supplement and support your relationship with your healthcare provider.

The organization is awkward too. It's broken down into weeks, and each week talks about some random things, ranging from diet and exercise to possible genetic diseases to emotional or practical needs and all sorts of other random mumbo jumbo. Updated pregnancy advice and newborn baby care information to help you make the right decisions for you and your baby For my second baby, the book was a good reminder of things that happened from my first pregnancy. The information provided was educational, informative and helpful. Risk of gestational diabetes It states: "Gestational diabetes affects 10% of all pregnancies...if gestational diabetes occurs with one pregnancy, there's almost a 90% chance it will happen in future pregnancies." ABSOLUTELY NOT TRUE. Statistics are 4% of all pregnancies, and the risk of recurrence is around 30%. It also goes on to say that if you do have it, you're dooming your child to a life of obesity. Pure fear mongering.All the latest medical advice for mums-to-be is covered, including guidance on nutrition and exercise, so you'll understand how to keep you and your baby happy and healthy throughout your pregnancy. In-depth 1st trimester pregnancy 3rd trimester pregnancy Antidepressants and pregnancy Depression during pregnancy Epilepsy and pregnancy Fetal development 2nd trimester The ideal gift for expectant mothers who are seeking a healthy and happy pregnancy every step of the way, and a must-have parenting book for those who seek a detailed account of labour, birth, and exploring all the options available during pregnancy care.