Suggested Reading 

As a mother, a doula and a midwife's assistant, I would suggest the following books and videos for any expectant mother or couple. These are the same books and resources that I share with my own family & friends when they are pregnant. Every pregnant woman deserves the best of the best!

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Books to avoid are "The Girlfriends' Guide to Pregnancy" and "What to Expect When You're Expecting" along with any other fear-mongering, misinformation filled tomes of negativity. You'll hear enough negativity from random people about their own births before the baby comes, I'm sure. I heard a new horror story every single day that I was pregnant with my son and still do. Horror stories should not be the norm. Educate and empower yourself to have a better birth. Choose to surround yourself with a positive and supportive birthing team: the right midwife/doctor, a nurse you fit well with, and a great doula. Any family or friends that you choose to have present should also be educated, positive and supportive.

This is the link to the NYS Department of Health site where you can compare the rates of all your local hospitals. Delivering at the best rated hospital doesn't ensure anything if your care provider's plans and policies are adverse to your wishes. Interview potential care providers prior to pregnancy, if possible, or as early on in your pregnancy as you can. You can switch care providers during pregnancy, usually within the first or second trimester is preferable. Having a provider that meshes well with your wishes puts you ahead of the game from most women.

Don't forget to check out our online video resources, our local resources list, waterbirth info & handouts section too!