Immerse yourself in knowlege about your pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and your new baby.

Jacque Book Lists:

Birth Books Every Pregnant Couple Needs to Read

 Really, there are a hundred amazing birth books, but let's start simple. These are the best of the best, and everyone should read them. 

Ina May's Guide to Childbirth  by Ina May Gaskin CPM

The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer

Gentle Birth Choices by Barbara Harper CNM

The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth by Sheila Kitzinger

Birthing from Within by Pam England CNM

Active Birth by Janet Balaskas (excellent overview of the benefits of moving and being upright during labor and birth)

Mind Over Labor  by Carl Jones (extremely helpful visualization exercises)

The Labor Progress Handbook by Penny Simkin (take this one to the hospital or birth center with you, too)

Jacque Book Lists:

Homebirth Books Every Homebirth Couple Needs to Read

 In addition to the books above, include these titles:

Spiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin CPM (a foundational work laying the groundwork for the homebirth movement, beautiful homebirth stories)

Choosing Waterbirth: Reclaiming the Sacred Power of Birth by Lakshmi Bertram (great read for those considering waterbirth)

Jacque Book Lists:

Early Parenting Books Everyone Should Read During Pregnancy and Explore Together with Your Partner

The Baby Book by Dr. Sears

Attachment Parenting by Katie Allison Granju

The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League International

The Vaccine Book by Robert Sears MD

Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering by Dr. Sarah J. Buckley

Calms: A Guide to Soothing Your Baby by Carrie Contey PhD, Debby Takikawa DC