How do I choose a pregnancy book?

lovemymr · May 2010

Okay, ladies...I promise that all my posts won't be questions. In fact, I'm hoping to post an update on my betas from yesterday as soon as I hear from my doctor's office.

In the meantime, though, I wanted to ask you all if there's a pregnancy book that you would highly recommend. I'm thinking of getting one this weekend (probably through half.com), but there are just so many to choose from! My doc actually suggested that I stay away from "What to Expect," because she said it scared her and she delivers babies for a living! So, I'm curious to know if any of you moms with kids feel the same about that book.

This is my first pregnancy, so I'm looking for something that will help me understand what's going on inside my body and help me consider the various things I need to consider before having a baby. I may have to buy two books to get the information I need, and that's okay.

I bought my husband "The Expectant Father" book on half.com today, because he looked through it at Barnes & Noble and said that he liked the format and content. I can report back once he's had a chance to read through it some more.

All input welcome!

danamh83 · May 2010

MH has "The Expectant Father" too. My gf who's in her 2nd tri said she really liked "What to Expect When You're Expecting" so I got that one. My biggest complaint so far is the organization of some of the content. I also have "Eating Well When You're Expecting" which I love thus far.

*kendrick* · May 2010

I suggest going to the library to scan all of the options, then pick a few to take home and read through. From there, you can buy any "must haves". Also, look at yard sales. Used PG books tend to prolific and cheap!

ETA- I know that some people hate WTE, but I didn't find it any more or less scary than Your Pregnancy Week by Week. Sometimes I think WTE is extreme here and there, but I don't mind. I don't take anything at face value, so I welcome their perspective balanced with another one to form my own opinion.

KCKSarah · May 2010

I've enjoyed "A Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy" by Vicki Iovine. And I totally agree that "What to Expect" freaks people out...this is my first pregnancy, but I tell ya, the whole tone of the book seems alarmist to me.

Rochell · May 2010

I really enjoyed "The girlfriends guide to pregnancy" - it was light, funny and informative. It's definitely NOT written by a doctor but gives advice from current mothers who already went through the process.

IAM4UK · May 2010

I agree with staying away from "What to Expect" I hated it.

My husband and I really enjoyed "Your Pregnancy Week by Week" We would read it together in bed on Sunday evenings. It was sort of our ritual.

I also recommended Belly Laughs as just a funny book about pregnancy. Pick up a copy of Baby Bargains for deciding on your baby gear purchases.

KatInTheHat28 · May 2010

I like "Your Pregnancy Week by Week." It covers the basics and because it covers each week separately, there is something new to read every week!

atdowns · May 2010

I agree with your pregnancy week by week, it's great and has cool pictures of development too.?

I also LOVED the girlfriends guide, I think all women should read it, it's just such a great stres sreliever, she's not heavy ahnded about anything.?

beign diabetic I have to recomend Balancing Pregnancy with Preexisting Diabetes by Cheryl Alkon. (not helpful for you but I had to give the shout out as that book has changed my life!)

I also recomend as fun reading, a great coffee table discussion book and an awsome book for dads.?

The baby owners manual and the todler owners manual! These are a pair of little books that are basicly how to and what you need survival guides on kids, but they're written and designed like computer owners manuals!!! which is a RIOT!!! they're great just o laugh, but reallyusefull too. and the fact that my husband is a digital graphic artist and media designer (aka computer geek) made it extra fun.?

For example the first page of "the baby owner's Manual:operating instructions, trouble shooting tips, and advice on first year maintnance" is the parts and accessories list and it states "Check your baby carefully before home installation, if any parts are missing, notify service provider immediately"

TOO CUTE!

kpowersw · May 2010

Check out Expecting 411 as well. It's new, and by the same doctor who wrote Baby 411 and Toddler 411, which are my go to books for my two sons. I love how they're organized and the tone and clarity of the content.

KTtheWife · May 2010

I have The Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy. I really like it. So far, it hasn't freaked me out. I also have What to Expect and I think it's OK. I like the Mayo Clinic one better.

I just looked at Belly Laughs at B&N yesterday and it looks hilarious! I requested it from the library.

NikkiAnderson907 · May 2010

Belly Laughs by Jenny McCarthy!!!!! It is hilarious and very honest. Either way, I'd suggest getting one written by a Dr. and one written by a mom. The combo gives you all the info you need!

WestCoastMommy · May 2010

"The Pregnancy Bible" I LOVED this book with DS #1. Way better then the others.

https://www.amazon.com/Pregnancy-Bible-Complete-Guide-Parenthood/dp/155297796X

Mrs.LD813 · May 2010

So far, I haven't cared for What to Expect. I also have Your Pregnancy, Week by Week and The Girlfriends' Guide to Pregnancy, and I love both of those.

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