Best Pregnancy Books for Expectant Moms and Dads

Gina I.:  What to Expect When You’re Expecting by Heidi Murkoff has been a go-to resource for expectant moms for decades…and for good reason! You’ll find a handy week-by-week guide for keeping track of baby’s development, as well as updated information on current health related pregnancy issues.

Gina I.:  Dads can use some help navigating the 9 months before baby arrives too, and this book by by Armin A. Brott and Jennifer Ash doesn’t disappoint. One of the best pregnancy books for men and perfect for first time dads, The Expectant Father gives unique insight on what mom is experiencing (both physically and emotionally) throughout her pregnancy.

Gina I.:  A midwife for more than 30 years, Ina May Gaskin has seen it all, and she shares her wisdom on how to have a healthy and fulfilling childbirth experience. Whether you are hoping for an intervention free birth or simply want to better prepare yourself, you’ll find lots of great information here.

Gina I.:  If you’re one of the first of your friends to get pregnant, who do you look to for real advice? The Girlfriends' Guide to Pregnancy by Vicki Iovine is a light-hearted, humorous look at pregnancy and childbirth, as well as a guide to staying stylish and feeling sexy throughout your 9 months.

Gina I.:  Jenny McCarthy doesn’t hold back in this hilarious and real portrayal of pregnancy. You won’t find lots of medical advice here, but you will get a brutally honest look at things like pregnancy sex and hemorrhoids. A fast, fun read!

Gina I.:  If you’re looking for a thorough and informative guide to pregnancy that’s not textbook length, this book by Cassandra Paterson is the perfect resource. From addressing myths about pregnancy to providing practical tips on how to stay healthy for those 9 months, this book is a helpful guide and an easy read.

Gina I.:  If you are looking for accurate medical advice on pregnancy without the ‘scare factor,’ this is the book for you. Read it from cover to cover or use it as a resource to check your symptoms and review important pregnancy decisions.

Gina I.:  Written by Dr. William Sears, The Healthy Pregnancy Book focuses on natural ways you can stay healthy and active throughout your pregnancy. From using natural cleaning products in your home to choosing superfoods for their nutritional benefits, you’ll find lots of informative and practical advice in this book.

Kristy Pepping:  Let's face it, women have baby showers, babysitting jobs, and may have more general experience when it comes to babies. This is a great book for the dads. There are not as many dad-to-be books out there and this is a good one. Author Kevin Nelson gives new dads an easy read with step by step instructions about becoming a father.

Gina I.:  A more holistic approach to pregnancy, The Mindful Mom-to-Be by Lori Bregman & Stefani Newman helps parents prepare physically and emotionally for the journey to parenthood. You’ll find great nutritional advice, exercises that help alleviate discomfort, tips on delivery, and much more.