Congratulations, mama-to-be and dad-to-be! The journey of pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative one.

Amidst the excitement and anticipation, there’s no better way to prepare and relax than by reading good book.

Whether you’re seeking practical advice, emotional support, or simply a delightful escape.

This curated list of 14 books to read when pregnant, has something for every expecting parent. Find the book you will love from the list, let’s go!! 

Table of Contents

1. What to Expect When You’re Expecting
2. Expecting Better
3. Real Food for Pregnancy: The Science and Wisdom of Optimal Prenatal Nutrition
4. Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide
5. The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality
6. The Mindful Mother
7. Magical Beginnings, Enchanted Lives
8. The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be
9. We’re Pregnant!: “The First Time Dad’s Pregnancy Handbook”
10. Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth
11. Like a Mother: A Feminist Journey Through the Science and Culture of Pregnancy
12. Birth Without Fear: The Judgement-Free Guide to Taking Charge of Your Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum
13. The Pregnancy Handbook For Indian Moms: A Doctor’s Answers To All Your Questions
14. Pregnancy Notes: Before, During & After

#1 What to Expect When You’re Expecting

by Heidi Murkoff

This is the quintessential pregnancy bible, a trusted resource for generations. It breaks down the entire pregnancy journey into manageable chunks, covering everything from early symptoms to labor and delivery.

The book is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical advancements and offers practical tips for navigating the challenges of each trimester.

• Key Takeaways: Detailed week-by-week breakdowns of fetal development and maternal changes, symptom relief strategies, nutrition guidelines, and advice on common pregnancy concerns.
• Best For: First-time mothers who want a thorough, easy-to-understand guide to every aspect of pregnancy.

#2 Expecting Better

by Emily Oster

Emily Oster, an economist, brings a unique perspective to pregnancy books. She challenges conventional wisdom by analyzing the data behind common pregnancy recommendations.

This book empowers readers to make informed choices based on scientific evidence, rather than blindly following outdated or unfounded advice.

• Key Takeaways: Critical analysis of pregnancy guidelines, risk assessment tools, and a balanced approach to decision-making. Covers topics like caffeine intake, alcohol consumption, and exercise.
• Best For: Analytical individuals who prefer evidence-based information and want to understand the “why” behind pregnancy rules.

#3 Real Food for Pregnancy: The Science and Wisdom of Optimal Prenatal Nutrition

by Lily Nichols

Lily Nichols, a registered dietitian and nutritionist, emphasizes the importance of a nutrient-dense diet during pregnancy.

This book goes beyond basic nutrition guidelines, providing detailed information on essential nutrients, meal planning, and addressing common dietary concerns.

• Key Takeaways: Focus on whole foods, optimal macronutrient balance, strategies for managing gestational diabetes, and personalized nutrition advice.

• Best For: Expectant mothers who are passionate about healthy eating and want to optimize their nutrition for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

#4 Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide

by Penny Simkin et al.

This comprehensive guide is a valuable resource for anyone seeking in-depth information on pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care.

It covers a wide range of topics, including labor and delivery options, pain management, breastfeeding, and postpartum recovery.

• Key Takeaways: Detailed explanations of labor stages, birthing techniques, newborn care essentials, and guidance on navigating the postpartum period.

• Best For: Individuals who want a very extensive resource, and those that want to be prepared for many possible birth scenarios.

#5 The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality

by Kimberly Ann Johnson

This book focuses on the often-overlooked postpartum period, providing guidance on physical and emotional healing.

It addresses the challenges of adjusting to motherhood, recovering from childbirth, and prioritizing self-care.

• Key Takeaways: Information on pelvic floor health, emotional well-being, strategies for managing postpartum depression, and tips for building a supportive community.

• Best For: New mothers who want to prioritize their well-being and navigate the transition to motherhood with grace and resilience.

#6 The Mindful Mother

by Naomi Chunilal

This book guides the reader through the emotional landscape of pregnancy and early motherhood, offering practical mindfulness techniques to manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelm.

It emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and cultivating a positive mindset.

• Key Takeaways: Guided meditations, breathing exercises, strategies for managing emotional fluctuations, and tips for fostering a strong mother-child bond.

• Best For: Mothers who want to cultivate inner peace, reduce stress, and enhance their emotional well-being during pregnancy and beyond.

#7 Magical Beginnings, Enchanted Lives

by Deepak Chopra et al.

This book takes a holistic approach to pregnancy, integrating ancient wisdom with modern medical knowledge.

It emphasizes the spiritual connection between mother and child, offering guidance on creating a peaceful and nurturing environment for the developing baby.

• Key Takeaways: Meditations, visualizations, and affirmations for a harmonious pregnancy, guidance on prenatal bonding, and insights into the spiritual aspects of childbirth.

• Best For: Individuals who are interested in exploring the spiritual dimensions of pregnancy and want to create a sacred and meaningful experience.

#8 The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be

by Armin A. Brott

This book provides expectant fathers with a comprehensive and engaging guide to pregnancy and early parenthood.

It addresses the emotional, practical, and relationship aspects of becoming a dad, offering valuable insights and advice.

It’s written in a relatable and often humorous tone, making it an enjoyable read.

• Key Takeaways: Month-by-month breakdowns of pregnancy changes, tips for supporting the partner, advice on preparing for labor and delivery, and guidance on navigating the challenges of early fatherhood.

• Best For: First-time fathers and experienced dads alike who want to be actively involved and well-informed throughout the pregnancy journey.

#9 We’re Pregnant!: “The First Time Dad’s Pregnancy Handbook”

By Adrian Kulp

This book is a very lighthearted and humorous guide for first time fathers. It goes through each stage of the pregnancy and breaks down all of the information in a way that is easy to understand.

• Key Takeaways: Humorous and relatable advice, information broken down in a way that is easy to understand, and a focus on the father’s point of view.

• Best For: First time fathers who want a book that is easy to read and that will make them laugh.

#10 Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth

by Ina May Gaskin

Ina May Gaskin, a renowned midwife, shares her philosophy and experience of natural childbirth. This book is a powerful resource for those interested in exploring natural birth options and empowering themselves during labor.

It includes positive birth stories and practical advice.

• Key Takeaways: Exploration of natural childbirth techniques, empowering birth stories, and insights into the mind-body connection during labor.

• Best For: Expectant mothers interested in natural childbirth, those seeking positive birth stories, and those wanting to explore the power of the body during labor.

#11 Like a Mother: A Feminist Journey Through the Science and Culture of Pregnancy

by Angela Garbes

Angela Garbes offers a unique perspective on pregnancy, blending scientific research with personal experiences and feminist insights.

This book challenges conventional narratives and explores the complexities of pregnancy from a cultural and social standpoint.

• Key Takeaways: Exploration of the science and culture of pregnancy, feminist perspectives on motherhood, and insights into the social and political aspects of pregnancy.

• Best For: Expectant mothers interested in a feminist perspective, those seeking a deeper understanding of the social and cultural aspects of pregnancy, and those who like a blend of personal stories and scientific research.

#12 Birth Without Fear: The Judgement-Free Guide to Taking Charge of Your Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum

by January Harshe

This book focuses on empowering women to trust their bodies and make informed choices about their birth experiences.

It addresses common fears and anxieties surrounding childbirth, offering practical tools and strategies for a positive and empowering birth.  

• Key Takeaways: Strategies for overcoming birth fears, information on informed decision-making, and guidance on creating a positive birth experience.

• Best For: Expectant mothers experiencing birth anxiety, those seeking empowerment and confidence during labor, and those wanting a judgment-free approach to birth.

#13 The Pregnancy Handbook For Indian Moms: A Doctor’s Answers To All Your Questions

by Dr. Vinita Salvi

This book addresses the specific concerns and cultural nuances relevant to Indian mothers-to-be.

It provides medically sound advice while also acknowledging the importance of traditional practices and beliefs.

It covers a wide range of topics, from dietary recommendations to cultural customs.

• Key Takeaways: Culturally sensitive information on prenatal care, dietary guidelines tailored to Indian cuisine, advice on traditional practices, and guidance on navigating family expectations.

• Best For: Indian mothers seeking culturally relevant and medically accurate information.

#14 Pregnancy Notes: Before, During & After

by Rujuta Diwekar

This book is written by a well known Indian nutritionist and provides information that is focused on Indian diets, and customs. It provides a more holistic view of pregnancy.

• Key Takeaways: Indian focused dietary information, information about excercise, and cultural information.
• Best For: Indian mothers who want a holistic view of pregnancy.

We hope this list helps you find the perfect books for your pregnancy journey.

Remember, you’re not alone! Share your favorite pregnancy reads in the comments below and connect with other expectant parents.

Wishing you a healthy and happy pregnancy!