Here is my curated list of books to read before having a baby. They were great resources to me and I felt that the information they provided was invaluable, things that I will carry with me forever to refer to during future pregnancies and to share with friends when they expand their families.
If you are looking for some books, these are my top books to read!
The Mama Natural Week-By-Week Guide to Pregnancy & Childbirth, Genevieve Howland
This was my pregnancy bible. I read it weekly as my pregnancy progressed. I looked forward to the weekly update, learning where baby was at in the development stage and where I was as well. It’s an amazing read for first-time moms, especially as it goes into all the details of what to expect during your labour. It walks you through the different options you have regarding interventions (yes! You have options; you do not need to get all the interventions they suggest once the baby arrives. You can say no!) It gives you a more holistic natural approach to your birth and empowers you to take your birth back!
The Postnatal Depletion Cure, Dr. Oscar Serrallach
Dr. Serrallach is an integrative GP based in Australia. He is the first to write a book focusing on postnatal depletion. You hear all too often of postnatal depression, but never do you hear about the underlying cause, what is actually going on a deeper level to cause the depression. Why am I experiencing the baby blues? Why do I have baby brain? Why am I constantly tired? All these questions are answered, and he provides a protocol that focuses on micro and macronutrients, minerals and vitamins and how to rebuild in the first six weeks after having a baby. A must-read!
Vaccinations A Thoughtful Parent’s Guide, Aviva Romm & The Vaccine-Friendly Plan, Dr. Paul Thomas & Dr. Jennifer Marguils
In my humble opinion, these two books should be must read for all parents. I encourage everyone to do their research regarding the childhood vaccine schedule. I am all for supporting individual choice, more importantly, informed choice. It is up to each parent to decide what is right for their children. When we raise our babies, especially in the first year, we are told to be so cautious about what foods to introduce and when to our babies, but for interventions, there is no such caution taken. If we are so cautious about what foods we introduce, shouldn’t we exercise the same caution as what we inject into our babies? I think so! It is of utmost importance to know exactly what is in each vaccine and to know of the risk, benefits and alternatives so you can make the best decision.
The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby & Child Care, Sally Fallon Morell & Thomas S. Cowan
A fabulous book that provides a traditional approach to nutrition, pregnancy, child development and more. It goes into depth on nutrition and holistic remedies for things from autism to whooping cough and provides a handful of nutritious recipes that are great for the whole family. If you are looking for a natural way to raise your baby, this is a must-read. This book has a permanent place on my bookshelf, so I can easily refer to it when needed!
Naturally Healthy Babies & Children, Aviva Romm
I love Aviva Romm, that’s why I have recommended two of her books! She is incredible! This book is something that I absolutely adore. I am all about natural healing, especially with my son, so this has been a great resource for me. I am a firm believer that nature has provided everything we need to get our bodies back in balance when illness arises, and this book just confirms that. With a plethora of herbal profiles and remedies, it is a must for all moms who want to avoid antibiotics when they can (most of the time they can be avoided!). Another book with a permanent place on my bookshelf as I refer to it often!
