Essential Reading and Listening List for Expecting Families
Preparing for birth is more than just a physical process—it's a journey that requires mental and emotional preparation. One of the most crucial aspects of this preparation is education.
By investing time in learning and absorbing information about birth, you empower yourself to make informed decisions and to become the best advocate for your unique experience. Understanding the intricacies of birth, from the stages of labor to potential interventions, equips you with the knowledge needed to navigate any situation that may arise.
Birth can be unpredictable, and knowing your rights and choices gives you a sense of control and empowerment, regardless of how your birth unfolds. I love seeing families enter their births confidently with the tools and knowledge to communicate their preferences to their birth team and actively participate in the decision-making process.
Reading and listening to birth podcasts is also about surrounding yourself with a positive and supportive mindset. Pregnancy is a time of heightened emotions, and consuming uplifting and empowering birth stories can help alleviate anxiety and foster a sense of calm and confidence.
By pouring ourselves into learning and growing, we can walk with confidence through our birth journey.
Today, I'm excited to share my essential list for those who are eager to learn about birth and feel confidently prepared. This collection includes a variety of resources, including books, online platforms, and podcasts, each offering a wealth of information to explore. Recognizing that everyone approaches birth education differently, I've pulled together my absolute favorite resources in different mediums so you can engage with the learning in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to you.
for my readers
THE ESSENTIAL BOOK LIST FOR EXPECTING FAMILIES
Real Food For Pregnancy
by Lily Nichols
Changing Birth on Earth
by Gail Tully
Mindful Birthing: Training the Mind, Body, and Heart for Childbirth and Beyond
by Nancy Bardacke
Birthing from Within: An Extra-Ordinary Guide to Childbirth Preparation
By Pam England and Rob Horowitz
Orgasmic Birth
by Elizabeth Davis & Debra Pascali-Bonara
The Fourth Trimester
by Kimberly Anna Johnson
Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!
By Rebecca Dekker, PHD, RN
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding
by La Leche League International | Diane Wiessinger, Diana West, Teresa Pitman
Birth Without Fear
by January Harshe
The First Forty Days
by Heng Ou
The Mama Natural Week to Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth
by Genevieve Howland
Hypnobirthing: A Natural Approach To A Safe, Easier, More Comfortable Birthing
By Marie F. Mongan
for my online searchers
THE ESSENTIAL ONLINE RESOURCES FOR EXPECTING FAMILIES
***An annual membership and access to their library is included with all of my doula packages!
for my podcast listeners
THE ESSENTIAL PODCAST LIST FOR EXPECTING FAMILIES
Down to Birth
Mommy Labor Nurse
The Birth Hour
Evidence Based Birth
Body Ready Method
Birthful
The Birth Worker Podcast
Welcome
I’m Lindsey Eden
Doula and birth photographer based in Denver Colorado! Mama of two and passionate believer that documenting the journey of birth can heal and change lives!
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