There are many, ever-changing books, blogs, and websites on the topics of pregnancy, labor and birth, breastfeeding, and newborn/child wellness. Whether you are having your first or fourth baby, you may find the scope of information overwhelming. So here, I offer you four of my favorite books on the topics mentioned above that withstand the test of time.
Ina May Gaskin is a renowned midwife, an international childbirth leader, and an advocate for mothers and babies. She is a truly inspiring woman. Ina May authors numerous books on the topic of childbirth and maternal health, and two of my favorites are Ina May’s Guide to Natural Childbirth and Ina May’s Guide to Breastfeeding.
In Ina May’s Guide to Natural Childbirth, Ina May draws upon her decades of experience to offer readers a comprehensive guide to childbirth, on everything from the importance of the mind-body connection to how to give birth with minimal technological intervention. She shares the benefits and joys of natural childbirth by reminding women how to trust the innate wisdom of their bodies. The foundation of her approach is based on the female-centered Midwifery Model of Care. Throughout the book, Ina May weaves inspiring stories with practical advice
Ina May’s Guide to Natural Childbirth removes the fearful lens of childbirth by restoring women’s faith in their own power to give birth with more confidence and joy, and less medical intervention. No matter how you “plan” to labor and birth, Ina May offers fruitful perspective and advice for everyone.
In Ina May’s Guide to Breastfeeding, Ina May Gaskin discusses the health, emotional, and spiritual benefits of breastfeeding, while giving you practical advice on how to have a fulfilling nursing relationship. You will find topics including:
- nursing challenges
- pumps and other nursing products
- sleeping arrangements
- nursing and work
- medications
- nursing multiples
- weaning
- sick babies
- nipplephobia, and much more
Aviva Romm is a physician, midwife, and herbalist. She has written many wonderful books on the subjects of childbirth, women’s herbal medicine, and newborn and child health. Two of my favorites are Naturally Healthy Babies and Children: A Commonsense Guide to Herbal Remedies, Nutrition, and Health and Vaccinations: A Thoughtful Parents’ Guide.
I deeply appreciate Romm’s commitment to finding natural ways to care for babies and children as the first tier of care prior to seeking more invasive procedures and pharmacological medications often associated with western medicine. In Naturally Healthy Babies and Children: A Commonsense Guide to Herbal Remedies, Nutrition, and Health, Romm provides a comprehensive handbook that addresses many of the common health issues of children, from newborns to preadolescents. Each issue she discusses includes herbal, dietary, and general recommendations including tips on when to pursue professional medical care.
For families interested in practicing safe and effective healing techniques at home, Naturally Healthy Babies and Children: A Commonsense Guide to Herbal Remedies, Nutrition, and Health is your go-to guide.
Also! Aviva Romm has a FANTASTIC website, blog, and email subscription that you all should check out!
Vaccinations are a hot and heated national and international topic. We each have our own strong beliefs about vaccinations. As a midwife, I seek to provide families I support with the most unbiased and comprehensive educational material. As a mother, I also want to facilitate a strong and healthy constitution for my children. Professionally and personally, I used Vaccinations: A Thoughtful Parents’ Guide to inform myself and other families.
~ ~ ~
