Preparing for Baby The Best Pregnancy Books to Guide You Through Those Wild 9 Months 'What to Expect' remains a classic; plus other helpful reads By Maya Polton Maya Polton LinkedIn Maya has more than 15 years of experience in digital media and communications and specializes in writing about family, food, and lifestyles. Learn about our editorial process and Katrina Cossey Katrina Cossey Katrina Cossey is a freelance writer covering topics ranging from local and national news as well as writing and researching for parenting content. Learn about our editorial process Updated on March 29, 2022 Medically reviewed Verywell Family articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and family healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Rachel Gurevich, RN Medically reviewed by Rachel Gurevich, RN Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Rachel Gurevich is a fertility advocate, author, and recipient of The Hope Award for Achievement, from Resolve: The National Infertility Association. She is a professional member of the Association of Health Care Journalists and has been writing about women’s health since 2001. Rachel uses her own experiences with infertility to write compassionate, practical, and supportive articles. Learn about our Medical Review Board Fact checked Verywell Family content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Marley Hall Fact checked by Marley Hall LinkedIn Marley Hall is a writer and fact-checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Verywell / Chloe Jeong Pregnancy is an exciting time, but can also be full of questions and worries. Changes to your body and surprising symptoms can come out of nowhere, and for first-time parents-to-be, it’s an entirely new experience. Getting prepared for the nine months ahead is key to mental and physical health, so reading a pregnancy book (or two!) can help you learn more about your body and the changes ahead. Reviewed & Approved "What to Expect When You’re Expecting" is a classic pregnancy book chock full of information on pregnancy symptoms, birth, and even info for dads. For a quicker read, we recommend "50 Things to Do Before You Deliver: The First Time Moms Pregnancy Guide". “There are currently a plethora of pregnancy books on the market. I typically recommend books that are supported by evidence-based studies and written by subject matter experts who are credentialed in the field,” explains Gina Charles, DO, board-certified family medicine physician based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. “You should also opt for a book that has a variety of pregnancy-related topics with resources so you can refer to it along your journey.” It doesn’t matter if this is your first, second, or third pregnancy, look for a book that tailors to your needs. The best pregnancy book is the best book for you—whether you’d like something conversational or more informational. We carefully looked at reputable information, value, and usefulness when reviewing products. Here are the best pregnancy books to suit your lifestyle, needs, and situation. Our Top Picks Best Overall: "What to Expect When You’re Expecting" at Amazon Jump to Review Best Activity Book: "50 Things to Do Before You Deliver" at Amazon Jump to Review Best Data-Driven: "Expecting Better" at Amazon Jump to Review Best Holistic: "The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth" at Amazon Jump to Review Best for New Dads: "The Expectant Father" at Amazon Jump to Review Best Modern: "Bumpin’" at Amazon Jump to Review Best for LGBTQ Pregnancies: "The Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy for Lesbians" at Amazon Jump to Review Best Humourous: "Say No to Placenta Pics" at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Multiples: "What to Do When You’re Having Two" at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Intended Parents: "Successful Surrogacy" at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For Why Trust Verywell Family Best Overall: "What to Expect When You’re Expecting" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Bookshop.org Pros Very comprehensive Includes information for dads Has an accompanying app Cons Length may feel overwhelming "What to Expect When You're Expecting" tops our list because it's one book filled with all the information you need to know about pregnancy. Don’t be intimidated by the 600-plus-page book—you don’t need to read every single page. The book includes chapters on specific info such as pregnancy symptoms, pregnancy lifestyle, info for dads, carrying multiples, and also week-by-week developmental information. There's also information on how to manage pregnancy complications and coping with a pregnancy loss. Best Activity Book: "50 Things to Do Before You Deliver: The First Time Moms Pregnancy Guide" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Bookshop.org Pros Organized by trimester Offers activities to complete Quick read Cons Not as in-depth as other options Organized by trimester, this book will help women take things one step at a time. There’s specific guidance and activities tailored to every stage of pregnancy. Inclusive and logical, this book is bursting with real-life information that can be very useful for moms who love lists and step-by-step guides. Best Data-Driven: "Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Bookshop.org Pros Calm tone Includes clinical research Quick read Cons Some reported printing errors in physical copy Written by award-winning economist Emily Oster, this book debunks myths and explains pregnancy by evaluating data. The author presents and examines data on nearly every decision pregnant people will need to make, encouraging them to make their own informed choice. Readers appreciate the calm and informative tone of this book. What Our Editors Say "If you only read one pregnancy book, this is my personal recommendation. The author's data-driven search for answers around the most common pregnancy dos and don'ts made me feel better about the decisions I was making about my body and my growing baby. She provides helpful clarity around confusing guidelines and explains why, for instance, we're told to avoid certain foods or drinks. During my first pregnancy, I kept the book in my purse when I went out to eat because I bookmarked the page with a helpful diagram about which fish are best to eat and best to avoid." — Ashleigh Morley, Commerce Editorial Director The 14 Best Gifts for New Parents of 2022 Best Holistic: "The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Bookshop.org Pros Provides weekly advice Holistic-focused Includes helpful recipes Cons Claims are not always based in science Emphasizing that having a baby is a wondrous biological process and not a medical condition is the overall focus of this book. Full of weekly advice for every stage of pregnancy, this holistic-focused book also includes nutrition tips, natural remedies, birth stories, and expert advice. Best for New Dads: "The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Barnesandnoble.com Pros Organized by month Includes information about adoptions and having multiples Quick read Cons Not as in-depth as other options Get dad involved with his very own expectant father book. Written just for dads-to-be, this book will give expectant papas all the tools they need to support their partner, prepare for the new baby’s arrival, and take care of themselves during the exciting nine months ahead. The 22 Best Gifts for Dads of 2022 Best Modern: "Bumpin’: The Modern Guide to Pregnancy" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Bookshop.org Pros Lighthearted tone Includes clinical research and practical advice Organized by trimester Cons Not as in-depth as other options Parents-to-be will appreciate that this choice is written in a frank and funny style. The modern guide includes clinical research mixed with practical advice from a bevy of experts including OB-GYNs, therapists, doulas, lactation experts, pelvic floor therapists, and more. The combination results in a useful book that gives trimester-by-trimester overviews, pregnancy symptoms and relief, important decisions to consider, registry tips, exercises, and so much more. The 27 Best Gifts to Buy Expecting Moms in 2022 Best for LGBTQ Pregnancies: "The Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy for Lesbians" Courtesy of Barnes & Noble View On Amazon View On Barnesandnoble.com Pros Easy to read Inclusively written Very comprehensive Cons Some material is dated An easy-to-read guide, women will appreciate that this pick focuses on the unique needs of lesbians. Starting from pre-conception through newborn life, the helpful book includes information on fertility, sperm banks, conception, pregnancy, legal rights, and more. Inclusively written, there’s relevant and specific content for both coupled and single women. Best Humourous: "Say No to Placenta Pics" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Booksamillion.com Pros Lighthearted tone Quick read Relatable Cons Doesn't provide a lot of traditional information If a light and funny guide will put you at ease, choose this book. Co-written by friends Jillian M. Parsons and Allison Baerken, this funny pick is an uncensored tell-all guide to pregnancy. A great gift, this choice will have most expectant people cracking up, although it’s not as full of traditional information as some of the other options. Best for Multiples: "What to Do When You’re Having Two" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Bookshop.org Pros Quick read Includes practical advice Lighthearted tone Cons Not as in-depth as other options Finding out that you are expecting twins can be a big shock. Calm some nerves with a well-loved twin survival guide. The comprehensive book includes information from pregnancy through the first year. The twin-specific info will help parents plan for the unexpected and accept the changes (and challenges) that two babies will bring. The Best Twin Products That Make Life With Two So Much Easier Best for Intended Parents: "Successful Surrogacy: An Intended Parent's Guide" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon Pros Demystifies surrogacy process Quick read Has helpful "ask yourself" prompts Cons Not as in-depth as other options The path to parenthood is different for everyone. For intended parents on the path of surrogacy, this title is a guide that helps intended parents and gestational carriers create a rewarding relationship through their pregnancy journey together. Written by an experienced gestational carrier, Susan MZ Fuller, the guide helps to demystify the process. Best Eating Guide: "What to Eat When You're Pregnant: A Week-by-Week Guide to Support Your Health and Your Baby's Development" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Barnesandnoble.com Pros 50 recipes included Weekly food guide Discusses eating healthy postpartum Cons Could use more vegetarian options Information is basic Whether you’re already expecting or contemplating a journey to parenthood, "What to Eat When You’re Pregnant" doubles as a weekly food guide for expecting parents. Readers will learn dozens of new recipes while learning about a baby’s development. We love the book’s easy-to-understand diet breakdown, including what foods to eat each trimester and how to keep food safe. Plus, author Nicole M. Avena, PhD, has additional advice for those who plan to nurse, so you can use the book even after birth. Best for First-Time Parents: "Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy" Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart Pros 40-week pregnancy calendar Evidence-based Detailed common pregnancy symptoms Cons Repetitive information Could provide more in-depth details The Mayo Clinic’s "Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy" is a favorite among many new parents and caregivers thanks in large part to the book’s 40-week pregnancy calendar. Soon-to-be parents can track their baby’s development each week while learning about their own body’s constant changes. The book explains the benefits and risks of different types of childbirth, like home births, C-sections, and more. There are also several chapters on postpartum topics, including breastfeeding and contraception, to help you troubleshoot any issues you may have. Final Verdict If you want just one book that will provide you with week-by-week information and useful tips, "What to Expect When You’re Expecting" is a tried and true resource. For a second source, choose a lifestyle-specific guide or the "50 Things to Do Before You Deliver: The First Time Moms Pregnancy Guide" that will keep you engaged for nine months. How We Selected the Best Pregnancy Books We studied the best-sellers and best-reviewed books on the topic of pregnancy, using customer reviews and reviews by competitors to help us narrow down this list to the most useful and easiest to read. We wanted to include a variety of books that address certain issues that can arise during pregnancy. Gina Charles, DO, a board-certified family medicine physician based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, also advised us of her favorites. What to Look for in a Pregnancy Book Reputable Information Make sure that the book you are relying on bases its information on science, medical research, and reputable sources. While the book doesn’t need to be written by a doctor to be helpful, it is important to check out the author's credentials to make sure they have expertise in the area. “There are currently a plethora of pregnancy books on the market,” says Gina Charles, DO, board-certified family medicine physician based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. “I typically recommend books that are supported by evidence-based studies and written by subject matter experts who are credentialed in the field.” Tailored to Your Needs Whether you about to be a twin mom, an LQBTQ parent-to-be, a science-based reader, or a more lighthearted person, there’s a pregnancy book out there to fit your style and preferences. Choose a book that suits you! You’ll be more likely to read it and absorb the info if you connect with the content. Frequently Asked Questions What books should I read when trying to conceive? When you're trying to conceive, books about fertility and conception are the way to go. If you think you may need help conceiving, it may be wise to read books on what to look for in a fertility clinic and fertility specialist. Whether you're trying to conceive with or without fertility assistance, books that contain specific questions you should ask your healthcare provider are the most helpful.“For those who are interested in learning how Western and Eastern medicine can be employed to increase chances of fertility, I recommend ‘Making Babies’ by Dr. Jill Blakeway and Dr. Sami David,” Dr. Charles tells Verywell Family. “And for anyone who is looking for a fertility book that uses non-clinical language, Rebecca Fett's ‘It Starts with the Egg’ does just that.” What are the best books on pregnancy? The best pregnancy books are based on the latest medical guidelines and scientific research. They provide thorough information on all aspects of pregnancy, from conception through delivery and caring for a newborn. They should also be easy to read and written in an understandable way, as well as supplement and support your relationship with your healthcare provider.“Choosing the right book can be overwhelming, especially during these sensitive periods of life. I recommend ‘Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy’ by Myra Wick, MD,” suggests Dr. Charles. “This book provides detailed information about fertility, prenatal care, common pregnancy symptoms, stages of childbirth and much more. It also has a 40-week tracker to document your progress along your entire pregnancy journey.” What books should I read during pregnancy? It's best to read up on the changes your body will be going through during different stages of your pregnancy, along with how your baby will develop in utero and in their first year. That way, you'll know what to expect and be able to track your baby's progress. This will enable you to better inform your healthcare provider about how you and your little one are doing and quickly address any issues that may arise.Dr. Charles does warn Verywell Family that there are some types of pregnancy books you may want to avoid. “The number one thing that I caution everyone [about] is searching the internet and relying on non-credible sites for answers,” she says. “I also caution [against] any books with absolute claims in their titles. For example, 'Guarantee pregnancy in three months,’ or, ‘Everything you need to know.’” Why Trust Verywell Family Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 7-year-old son, and 3-year old daughter. Maya prepped for her first pregnancy by reading a few different books, but nothing could have prepared her for reality. Her oldest was born in a taxi cab, in the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, on the way to the hospital! 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