It had been three months since I pushed a seven pound baby out of my vagina when I first heard of the book, When Survivors Give Birth (WSGB). Today, more than six years later, I facilitate my own WSGB sessions.
Read more#bookreview: #Pregnancy, #Childbirth and the Newborn
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn by Penny Simkin et al is the book that should take over from the absolutely horrible _What to Expect When You’re Expecting_as a pregnant mom-to-be’s go-to resource for everything related to her body, baby and postpartum period! It is The Book that I recommend to expecting parents for just that reason.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn offers a thoughtful, non-scary but honest guide for expecting women. It’s another one of these compendium Penny Simkin books which really offers the reader a boatload of bang for her buck in terms of quality of information, reassurance and resources as well as practical tips.
Books in this genre can always be counted on to talk about the importance of a birth doula but not as many include conversations about postpartum doulas and how they can help the new mom during this crucial time. But in Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn is great advice on both birth and postpartum doulas which is especially helpful for survivor moms who might not be aware of how great a role both of these doulas can play in helping mom feel good not only about her childbirth experience but also support her during the challenging postpartum period.
One of my favorite aspects of Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn is how inclusive it is. The information is offered in a matter of fact, nonjudgmental way which would be very reassuring to the stressed and already anxious mom-to-be, especially as survivor moms might be. For example, we all know how important breast-feeding is but some new moms, including survivor moms, cannot or choose not to breastfeed. There is an honest conversation about formula vs. breastmilk which contains good facts and non-judgy language. I don’t think we see enough of this in most books of this kind. But it is so important! Not only so new moms feel the best about their choices that they can but also so they can get the resources that they need without feeling guilty or inadequate.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn is the best, most through resource that I have found for expecting families. The detailed information in each chapter will not only be of help to the “average” pregnant family but also to the survivor mom who might need a little more knowledge in terms of understanding what to expect and also what steps she can take to feel more in control and confident through pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period.