What to Expect When You're Expecting: 4th Edition

  Author:    Heidi Murkoff, Sharon Mazel
  ISBN:    0761148574
  Sales Rank:    236
  Published:    2008-03-28
  Publisher:    Workman Publishing Company
  # Pages:    656
  Binding:    Paperback
  Avg. Rating:    4.0 based on 87 reviews
  Used Offers:    21 from $9.15
  Amazon Price:    $10.17
  (Data above last updated:  2008-11-29 05:47:46 EST)
  
  
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What to Expect When You're Expecting: 4th Edition
  
Announcing a brand new, cover-to-cover revision of America's pregnancy bible. What to Expect When You're Expecting is a perennial New York Times bestseller and one of USA Today's 25 most influential books of the past 25 years. It's read by more than 90% of pregnant women who read a pregnancy book--the most iconic, must-have book for parents-to-be, with over 14.5 million copies in print.

Now comes the Fourth Edition, a new book for a new generation of expectant moms--featuring a new look, a fresh perspective, and a friendlier-than-ever voice. It's filled with the most up-to-date information reflecting not only what's new in pregnancy, but what's relevant to pregnant women. Heidi Murkoff has rewritten every section of the book, answering dozens of new questions and including loads of new asked-for material, such as a detailed week-by-week fetal development section in each of the monthly chapters, an expanded chapter on pre-conception, and a brand new one on carrying multiples. More comprehensive, reassuring, and empathetic than ever, the Fourth Edition incorporates the most recent developments in obstetrics and addresses the most current lifestyle trends (from tattooing and belly piercing to Botox and aromatherapy). There's more than ever on pregnancy matters practical (including an expanded section on workplace concerns), physical (with more symptoms, more solutions), emotional (more advice on riding the mood roller coaster), nutritional (from low-carb to vegan, from junk food-dependent to caffeine-addicted), and sexual (what's hot and what's not in pregnant lovemaking), as well as much more support for that very important partner in parenting, the dad-to-be.

Overflowing with tips, helpful hints, and humor (a pregnant woman's best friend), this new edition is more accessible and easier to use than ever before. It's everything parents-to-be have come to expect from What to Expect... only better.



Amazon.com Exclusive
An Essay from Heidi Murkoff
What to Expect started with information--or, actually, lack of information. In fact, when I found out I was expecting for the first time--I didn't have the slightest idea of what to expect. And back then, it wasn't as easy to find out what to expect as you'd think. I created What to Expect When You're Expecting because I couldn't find the answers to my questions or the reassurance for my worries that I was searching for in the pregnancy books I read (and believe me, I read plenty). I was a mom on a mission--a mission to help other moms and dads worry less and enjoy their pregnancies (and their babies, and their toddlers) more. And I've been on that mission ever since.

So what sent me back to recreate What to Expect--for a fourth time? Today, there's definitely no lack of information on pregnancy. In fact there's more information than ever before (a quick online search of pregnancy or a glance at pages and pages of pregnancy and parenting options right here on Amazon will clue you in on that). But often what's still hard to find is the right kind of information. Information that's accurate yet empathetic, reassuring yet realistic--that empowers you, but doesn't overwhelm or confuse you, that guides you but doesn't dictate to you. And it's not just about the right information, it's about information that's presented in the way that's most helpful--easy to access, easy to digest, easy to use. It's about information that makes your pregnant life less stressful--more enjoyable, and, well, easier.

The fourth edition is a new What To Expect for a new generation of readers--you!--and I'm excited to say it's the best What To Expect yet. It's packed with all new information, of course (since things tend to change quickly in the baby-making and baby-delivering business--something you're probably all too aware of already if you've made more than one trip to the birthing room). But it doesn't only take into account what's new in obstetrics and what's new in pregnancy; it takes into account what's relevant to pregnant women now. Lifestyle. Working. Eating on the run. Juggling the pregnant life with real life. Keeping up with relationships. Birthing options that are family friendly and pregnancy care that incorporates the best that complimentary and alternative medicine has to offer. Managing multiples (which more and more moms are carrying). Sorting out the information from the misinformation--the reality from the hype, fact from Internet legend.

The fourth edition also takes into account how you likely use books these days, so the format is even more accessible than ever. More geared to in-the-moment, find-it-in-a-flash reading.

Most important of all, the fourth edition celebrates pregnancy. I have a passion for pregnancy, and always have. I love moms, I love dads, and I love babies. But everything about this fourth edition from the happy, excited mom-to-be on the cover, proudly caressing her beautiful belly and its even more beautiful contents, to the adorable week-by-week description of the making of your baby, to the positive (yet realistic), mom-to-mom tone throughout--this fourth edition is not just an explanation of those 9 amazing (though often bewildering) months you have ahead of you. It's a celebration of them.

What to Expect When You're Expecting fourth edition is everything moms and dads have come to expect from What to Expect... only better. And I can't wait to start sharing it with you.

I guess you can say--I'm a proud mama all over again.

--Heidi Murkoff


More to Explore

What to Expect: Eating Well When You're Expecting

What to Expect the First Year

The What to Expect Pregnancy Journal & Organizer

Announcing a brand new, cover-to-cover revision of America's pregnancy bible. What to Expect When You're Expecting is a perennial New York Times bestseller and one of USA Today's 25 most influential books of the past 25 years. It's read by more than 90% of pregnant women who read a pregnancy book--the most iconic, must-have book for parents-to-be, with over 14.5 million copies in print.

Now comes the Fourth Edition, a new book for a new generation of expectant moms--featuring a new look, a fresh perspective, and a friendlier-than-ever voice. It's filled with the most up-to-date information reflecting not only what's new in pregnancy, but what's relevant to pregnant women. Heidi Murkoff has rewritten every section of the book, answering dozens of new questions and including loads of new asked-for material, such as a detailed week-by-week fetal development section in each of the monthly chapters, an expanded chapter on pre-conception, and a brand new one on carrying multiples. More comprehensive, reassuring, and empathetic than ever, the Fourth Edition incorporates the most recent developments in obstetrics and addresses the most current lifestyle trends (from tattooing and belly piercing to Botox and aromatherapy). There's more than ever on pregnancy matters practical (including an expanded section on workplace concerns), physical (with more symptoms, more solutions), emotional (more advice on riding the mood roller coaster), nutritional (from low-carb to vegan, from junk food?dependent to caffeine-addicted), and sexual (what's hot and what's not in pregnant lovemaking), as well as much more support for that very important partner in parenting, the dad-to-be.

Overflowing with tips, helpful hints, and humor (a pregnant woman's best friend), this new edition is more accessible and easier to use than ever before. It's everything parents-to-be have come to expect from What to Expect... only better.



Amazon.com Exclusive
An Essay from Heidi Murkoff
What to Expect started with information--or, actually, lack of information. In fact, when I found out I was expecting for the first time--I didn't have the slightest idea of what to expect. And back then, it wasn't as easy to find out what to expect as you'd think. I created What to Expect When You're Expecting because I couldn't find the answers to my questions or the reassurance for my worries that I was searching for in the pregnancy books I read (and believe me, I read plenty). I was a mom on a mission--a mission to help other moms and dads worry less and enjoy their pregnancies (and their babies, and their toddlers) more. And I've been on that mission ever since.

So what sent me back to recreate What to Expect--for a fourth time? Today, there's definitely no lack of information on pregnancy. In fact there's more information than ever before (a quick online search of pregnancy or a glance at pages and pages of pregnancy and parenting options right here on Amazon will clue you in on that). But often what's still hard to find is the right kind of information. Information that's accurate yet empathetic, reassuring yet realistic--that empowers you, but doesn't overwhelm or confuse you, that guides you but doesn't dictate to you. And it's not just about the right information, it's about information that's presented in the way that's most helpful--easy to access, easy to digest, easy to use. It's about information that makes your pregnant life less stressful--more enjoyable, and, well, easier.

The fourth edition is a new What To Expect for a new generation of readers--you!--and I'm excited to say it's the best What To Expect yet. It's packed with all new information, of course (since things tend to change quickly in the baby-making and baby-delivering business--something you're probably all too aware of already if you've made more than one trip to the birthing room). But it doesn't only take into account what's new in obstetrics and what's new in pregnancy; it takes into account what's relevant to pregnant women now. Lifestyle. Working. Eating on the run. Juggling the pregnant life with real life. Keeping up with relationships. Birthing options that are family friendly and pregnancy care that incorporates the best that complimentary and alternative medicine has to offer. Managing multiples (which more and more moms are carrying). Sorting out the information from the misinformation--the reality from the hype, fact from Internet legend.

The fourth edition also takes into account how you likely use books these days, so the format is even more accessible than ever. More geared to in-the-moment, find-it-in-a-flash reading.

Most important of all, the fourth edition celebrates pregnancy. I have a passion for pregnancy, and always have. I love moms, I love dads, and I love babies. But everything about this fourth edition from the happy, excited mom-to-be on the cover, proudly caressing her beautiful belly and its even more beautiful contents, to the adorable week-by-week description of the making of your baby, to the positive (yet realistic), mom-to-mom tone throughout--this fourth edition is not just an explanation of those 9 amazing (though often bewildering) months you have ahead of you. It's a celebration of them.

What to Expect When You're Expecting fourth edition is everything moms and dads have come to expect from What to Expect... only better. And I can't wait to start sharing it with you.

I guess you can say--I'm a proud mama all over again.

--Heidi Murkoff


More to Explore

What to Expect: Eating Well When You're Expecting

What to Expect the First Year

The What to Expect Pregnancy Journal & Organizer

                  Reader Reviews 1 - 50 of 106            Next
  
  
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11-24-08 3 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good Reference Book
Reviewer Permalink
I bought this book just because that's what you're supposed to get when you find out you're pregnant. I've heard glowing reviews and not so great reviews. I think it is great to get some answers regarding specific problems in between your Dr.'s appointments. Reading each section for each month and trimester is sometimes torture. A LOT of the info in here is common sense, and I find it a tad bit embarrassing that some women actually ask questions like "Can I get a tatoo while I'm pregnant?". However, it has been helpful to get some home remedies for heartburn and what to do about my bleeding gums when I brush my teeth. I've found that it is best to just skim through each month as I approach that month in my pregnancy, and see what information actually applies to me. The first large chunk of the book did not apply to me at all, but I can see how it could be helpful to other expecting mothers in their late 30s and up. I bought this book along with The Pregnancy Countdown Book and have found that I really like the combination of the two.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-26 01:31:03 EST)
11-24-08 3 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good Reference Book
Reviewer Permalink
I bought this book just because that's what you're supposed to get when you find out you're pregnant. I've heard glowing reviews and not so great reviews. I think it is great to get some answers regarding specific problems in between your Dr.'s appointments. Reading each section for each month and trimester is sometimes torture. A LOT of the info in here is common sense, and I find it a tad bit embarrassing that some women actually ask questions like "Can I get a tatoo while I'm pregnant?". However, it has been helpful to get some home remedies for heartburn and what to do about my bleeding gums when I brush my teeth. I've found that it is best to just skim through each month as I approach that month in my pregnancy, and see what information actually applies to me. The first large chunk of the book did not apply to me at all, but I can see how it could be helpful to other expecting mothers in their late 30s and up. I bought this book along with The Pregnancy Countdown Book and have found that I really like the combination of the two.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-30 12:09:39 EST)
11-18-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Every Parent should own!
Reviewer Permalink
Every parent should have on hand. Great go to book, when you have any questions it give you clear answers. Would recommend this book for all first time parents.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-26 01:31:03 EST)
11-17-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Lots of info
Reviewer Permalink
I purchased this new edition for my sister-in-law. I read the previous version for my now 18-month old daughter and it was extremely helpful to the point that I also read What to Expect the first year and also toddler years.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-26 01:31:03 EST)
11-13-08 1 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Revised Title: What PROBLEMS to Expect When You're Expecting
Reviewer Permalink
After reading this book, I am amazed there are any successful, healthy pregnancies at all. This book has kept me on edge for the entire duration of the pregnancies with its monthly list of complications. I would have definitely been happier with a book that outlined all of the things that you personally can do to ensure a healthy pregnancy, and focus less on possile complications which are beyond your control!!!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-18 03:21:55 EST)
11-13-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good Read, Informative
Reviewer Permalink
As a first time expectant mom, I was looking for a book that was informative yet did not bombard me with so much information that I would freak out. I like how this book is organized by month and it answers questions that many expectant mothers like me have. I would recommend it to other first time moms but I am sure it would be a bore for veteran moms. Some of the information is scary but as along as you continue to see your doctor and know that you are OK, the complications section won't bother you. The point people have to understand is that no book will tell you everything you need to know, because every pregnancy is different. This is a good resource book but it's good to have a very open and honest relationship with your doctor also.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-18 03:21:55 EST)
11-08-08 1 0\1
(Hide Review...)  Read this if you like having meltdowns
Reviewer Permalink
To make a long story short, after getting about 120 pages into this book, I called my best friend nearly in tears. I told her I was reading the book, and before I could go into details, she said "oh for goodness sakes, don't read THAT! It's all about what you can't do and what can go wrong."

Turns out that three other friends of mine echoed the same sentiments with no prompting.

This book is a great way to make a (probably already nauseous) pregnant woman even more miserable.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-14 01:22:16 EST)
11-03-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Info, source for expectant couples
Reviewer Permalink
Great read together. Very informative and constant source of facts and ideas for every day/week of pregnancy.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-08 05:44:32 EST)
10-24-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Book Compared to 3rd Edition
Reviewer Permalink
I read both the 3rd edition and the new 4th edition. Although they cover pretty much the same material, I felt like the 4th edition had a better overall tone and quality then the 3rd edition. I would recommend reading this edition, even if it may cost you a bit more!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-04 01:28:34 EST)
10-22-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Interesting
Reviewer Permalink
This book was a lot longer / larger than what I anticipated and covers so much material from before, during, and after pregnancy. It is helpful and interesting if you want to know everything there is to know about pregnancy.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-04 01:28:34 EST)
10-18-08 1 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Want a Terror-Filled Pregnancy/Birth? Read this Book!!!
Reviewer Permalink
Seriously! If you take this book to heart, you *will* have a miserable pregnancy and an even worse birth. The basic gist of it is all women's bodies aren't meant to birth, and we should have every medical procedure done under the sun.

Better books out there are "Ina May's Guide to Birthing," and "The Birthing Partner" (gives *fantastic* suggestions for alternative birthing positions to help with less painful births).
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-04 01:28:34 EST)
10-09-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great resource for the pregnant
Reviewer Permalink
I ordered this book when I found out I was pregnant with my first child. Many of my family members had used earlier editions with their pregnancies. I was not disappointed. I like how it breaks up the chapters into months (weeks) of pregnancy. It goes into details about symptoms and reliefs, development of the baby, and questions you may have. I love the pictures of the growing baby and also the size of it compared to your body. It's amazing how much the baby develops when it's not even bigger than a prune. I would strongly recommend this to anyone who's pregnant or knows someone who is.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-04 01:28:34 EST)
10-08-08 1 3\4
(Hide Review...)  Great book for hypochondriacs, all others STAY AWAY!
Reviewer Permalink
This book will scare the ever living crap out of any pregnant mother-to-be. We picked it up due to its inexplicable popularity to find it's full of useful little tidbits like "too much sugar will permanently ruin your child" and "if you drink unfiltered tap water, your baby could DIE". It's like handing someone a medical journal and watching them self-diagnose terminal illnesses. Mothers, unless you want to find out how every little thing you do is going to damage your fetus, DON'T BUY THIS BOOK. Fathers, unless you want your wife to break down in tears because they thought they were giving your unborn child brain damage (like my wife did), DON'T BUY THIS BOOK. Friends, unless you think 9 months of OCD makes a great baby shower gift, DO NOT BUY THIS BOOK.

Useful recommendation: Your Pregnancy Week by Week, 6th Edition (Your Pregnancy Series). After chucking "What to Expect", we found this book told us everything we actually needed to know without causing us to wake up in cold sweats.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-04 01:28:34 EST)
10-08-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Prevented me from FREAKING OUT alot
Reviewer Permalink
This book was wonderfully informative. I had a tough pregnancy and ever time something happened I panicked. I found that by reading this book 1 chapter ahead I saved myself alot of sleepless nights and trips to the ER. Alot of little things change and develop during pregnancy but unless you have a thousand friends who just went through it you need a point of reference. Just like everything else you choose which parts to hold on to but if I was unsure about something contained inside the book I asked my Dr about it. No one source of information should ever dictate everything you do. Use multiple sources to establish the correct road for yourself.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-04 01:28:34 EST)
10-05-08 5 0\3
(Hide Review...)  4th edition is great!
Reviewer Permalink
All the reviewers who said that this book does nothing but scare expectant mothers must be reading an earlier edition. I didn't see one thing in this book that would be frightening to a first time mom and it was FULL of up to date relevant information. It even covered breastfeeding and nipple piercing. I would recommend the 4th edition to anyone expecting for the first time!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-11-04 01:28:34 EST)
09-28-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Every pregnant woman has to have this book!
Reviewer Permalink
I have the older version and that one was also excellent, but this new version is even better!! I love it!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-10-07 05:58:44 EST)
09-24-08 2 1\1
(Hide Review...)  There are far better books out there!
Reviewer Permalink
I got two copies of this book in my first month of pregnancy. This is supposed to be the holy grail of pregnancy that everyone carries with them for 9 months, so I dutifully read my chapter each month and didn't read ahead. Then I bought the Mayo Clinic Guide to Pregnancy and realized how much time I'd been wasting.

The way this book is set up is a little ridiculous, with the question- answer format. It makes it really difficult to find things if you have a question, and it leads to some information being jammed in odd places. One of the monthly chapters was almost completely about how to deal with STDs during pregnancy and childbirth. A large segment of the population skipped about 20 pages there and didn't learn anything much about that month of their child's development.

Aside from that little issue, there's the freakout I had every month thinking that something was going to be wrong with my child or myself, or that I was going to perish in a bloody c-section mistake. This book is really pretty alarmist in that regard, filling you in (but just a paragraph or so, just enough to scare you and then move on) on just about everything that could go wrong along the way. Never diagnose yourself because you read something in this book. Go to the doctor.

I actually stopped reading this around my 4th month, and just read the first page of each chapter now to see what their description of the developing baby is compared to the other books I own. If you're looking for a comprehensive medical guide to pregnancy, try the Mayo Clinic book. It's laid out better and has way more information than this one has.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-10-07 05:58:44 EST)
09-24-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good Book
Reviewer Permalink
My wife and I have found the book very helpful. Recommend to any expecting parents.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-10-07 05:58:44 EST)
09-22-08 3 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Missing a Chapter
Reviewer Permalink
This is a really great book and a must for all expectant mothers. Unfortunately, the book I received from Amazon was missing the entire fifth month of pregnancy so I'm going to have to go out and buy a new book since it was a gift for someone newly pregnant.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-10-07 05:58:44 EST)
09-15-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  good book
Reviewer Permalink
I think every pregnant person should at least have a copy of this around for reference.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-10-07 05:58:44 EST)
09-11-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  very informative
Reviewer Permalink
Really helped me, it answered alot of questions i had and addressed alot of worries for a first time mom and dad. My husband love to read it to.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-10-07 05:58:44 EST)
09-08-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  What to Expect when you're expecting: 4th edition
Reviewer Permalink
It is a very good book. It's good for all of people who are going through pregnancy. Alots of information in this book. Highly recommended
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 03:11:11 EST)
09-05-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  User's manual for pregnancy
Reviewer Permalink
Unlike some other reviewers, when I was pregnant I found WTEWYE to be a great resource to figure out what on earth was happening inside and throughout my pregnant body. The book is well-indexed and the format of following the chronology of the pregnancy let me access the information I wanted as it pertained. I am a biologist, so I know that my body is made for pregnancy, etc., but I also have a relative who had a very difficult birth and now has a severely handicapped child, so I wanted all the information I could get my hands on to give my baby the "best odds". Almost every time something new happened (like my first Braxton-Hicks practice contraction!), WTEWYE had a reassuring--to me at least-- explanation. Those reviewers who felt that this book made them paranoid and anxious and guilty, well, perhaps that just means that they learned something! I do like that this edition has a different cover design; after about a week, we made a paper-bag cover for it like we used to do with our textbooks in elementary school.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:28 EST)
09-05-08 2 0\1
(Hide Review...)  Disappointing
Reviewer Permalink
I bought this book because it's supposed to be the pregnancy 'Bible'. It's pretty complete, but I found the tone way too cutesy and patronizing. It gets a bit annoying after a couple of paragraphs.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:28 EST)
09-05-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Excellent all-around pregnancy book
Reviewer Permalink
Carries information about pretty much everything you'll want to know about. Written in a straight-forward, often funny way. Includes stuff for the father too. This book used to be given out at my doctor's office to all expectant moms. They switched to a different book when they discovered just about all of them already purchased the book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:28 EST)
09-02-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Book to Have!
Reviewer Permalink
This is a great book to have when you're expecting! I used a former edition with my other pregnancies so I was already familiar with the series. I needed an updated version to use especially with all the changes there are now. This book should not be used as a substitute for a doctor but it's terrific when your doctor refers to something and you can reference it in the book. As to the comments that this book will scare a pregnant woman - it has a wealth of information in it, which not all of it applies to every pregnancy. I would rather be informed and knowledgeable than never have known. I highly recommend the book!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:28 EST)
09-01-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Depends on where you are emotionally . . .
Reviewer Permalink
During my first pregnancy, I received three copies of this book from friends who had had babies. I consumed it, reading every word on every page. And then I WORRIED. What if I wasn't eating right? What if one of the complications listed happened to me? What if my placenta is in the wrong place?! I was a neurotic mess. The more I knew of the various possibilities within my pregnancy, the more worried and neurotic I became. I eventually passed the three books on to a thrift store. Five years later I was pregnant again. No one gave me the book. I missed it--I wanted to know how big my baby was each week, what I should be doing, what I should be watchful for. I couldn't remember anything I had read last time. I went out and bought the book. I no longer worried. I read it all again. It was a wonderful way to focus on the pregnancy, my body, the baby. It was just what I needed.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:28 EST)
08-31-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great so far!
Reviewer Permalink
I haven't made it past the first chapter yet but it seems great so far! The first introductory part refers to later chapters that are dedicated to the subjects they're mentioning. This book is LOADED with information fortunately I have a few months to finish it before my baby comes. :) The scholar in me wishes they actually noted the specific references to some of the studies the mention. Perhaps they were trying to keep it a very easy, non-academic read.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:28 EST)
08-27-08 3 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Okay read
Reviewer Permalink
Well I got this big book the first week I found out I was pregnant. 2 months later I started to read it and I finished 1/2 of it on the first reading. The book to me we just ok, I could have lived without. Alot of the book just dont apply to 99.9% of us.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:28 EST)
08-13-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety
Reviewer Permalink
Knowing what to expect made me less anxious and more in control of my pregnancy. I particularly appreciated the chapter on how to choose an obstetrician. I gave it four stars because of its extreme advice on caffeine avoidance.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:28 EST)
08-13-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Love this book!
Reviewer Permalink
This is a great book for those new to pregancy and very helpful. It doesn't talk down to you! I read it all in one sitting and then broke up the sections by week. Great book an dresources
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
08-11-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Book. Very Helpful.
Reviewer Permalink
This book really helped answer alot of the questions I had about my pregnancy. It was a helpful guide along the way. It let me know what to expect from my body and mind and let me know what was happening week by week with the development of my baby.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
08-08-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Book
Reviewer Permalink
I really enjoy this book. It's probably one of the only books I'll buy!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
08-08-08 1 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Scary for 1st time Moms
Reviewer Permalink
I bought this book at a Wal Mart, and started reading it that night. Some of the things they cover in this book are very scary to think about, and not very likely things most women need to worry about. I called my sister freaking out about one of the things I read, and she asured me that she never had that done in either of her pregnancies. I understand that I'll be going through a lot of tests now that I'm pregnat, but I don't want to start freaking out about something I will probably not have to do. My sister recommended the book Your Pregnancy Week By Week instead, and I am loving it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
08-06-08 1 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Really unhelpful and alarmist
Reviewer Permalink
This book offers only one version of pregnancy and childbirth - a managed, highly medicalized version. Which is totally fine if this is what you want, but this book doesn't present it as, "Well, you have this option or this option." It is straight away one version of high-drama childbirth that totally discounts the ability of most women to have a healthy, normal birth and healthy normal baby. Granted, all birth books seem to have a slant, but why not err on the side of what is healthiest for mom and baby? Sure, if you feel like you cannot birth without drugs or you don't care about having an episiotomy, this is fine and good, but lots of people find that when they are not scared into these procedures, and scared by birth in general, things tend to go more easily. The Sears pregnancy and birth books acknowledge the need/option for fetal monitoring, ultra-sounds, c-sections, drugs, etc., but at least give you the information about them rather than assuming that they are routine and 100% without risk. More on the alternative side is Having a Baby, Naturally: The Mothering Magazine Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth, but even if you don't end up going that route, everything in the book is well documented by studies, so it is a great source of information. I'm not trying to be harsh on this book, but it really stinks at giving a balanced, comprehensive view of your options, or of portraying birth as a natural, normal process. Try to avoid it if you can - it just makes you feel more nervous and stressed.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
08-03-08 1 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Expectant Mothers - Stay Away!
Reviewer Permalink
Good for nothing more than scaring expectant mothers into blindly following modern medicine - despite the consequences and other options available. Much of the information is either outdated and alarmist, and will surely worry expectant mothers (especially first time moms) for no reason. Pregnancy is a wonderful, joyous journey - don't bog it down with the undue stress this book will cause!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
07-31-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  First Pregnancy
Reviewer Permalink
This book helped me through a lot of symptoms I was having and didn't know what to expect!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
07-31-08 1 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Don't bother
Reviewer Permalink
This was the first book on pregnancy I purchased. I was extremely disappointed. Not only is it poorly organized, but it is not very informative. This book is supposed to be the the holy grail of pregnancy books, but I say don't waste your money!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
07-29-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  A must-have, despite some of these other negative reviews!
Reviewer Permalink
I have read a few negative reviews saying that this book scares pregnant women. That is not the case. In fact, without the clear, honest information in this book, I'd be showing up at my doctor's office (or the ER!) every day! The chapter about what can go wrong during pregnancy is in the back, and you don't even have to look at it if it does not apply to you or you are not interested in knowing that information. Most of the other chapters take you through the months of your pregnancy, with clear, organized, and useful information. When I was feeling a lot of pain in my lower abdomen, I started freaking out a bit... the book suggested I was feeling round ligament pains, and weeks later at my check-up my doctor confirmed that. Even though a book can't diagnose every woman, it is nice to read all the possibilities of what a woman is experiencing. I find the writing to be very positive, upbeat, supportive, and understanding. This is a must-have book for pregnant women who want to be informed.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
07-19-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  An Easy Read When It's Hard to Concentrate
Reviewer Permalink
A very easy and quick read for any reader. Very helpful information and explanations.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-12 02:40:29 EST)
07-13-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  tons of Information
Reviewer Permalink
this book has so much information that sometimes I would skip pages or only read with concerned me...for people who wanna know anything and everything about pregnancy and child birth this is your Bible...
absolutely satisfied with it and recommend it :-)
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-20 03:49:20 EST)
07-13-08 2 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Too many words, not information
Reviewer Permalink
That says it all. There is a lot of discussion about everything, but not the straight short precise answer.
We don't have time to read it!
Try other books instead.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-20 03:49:20 EST)
07-10-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Useful
Reviewer Permalink
I gave this 4th edition to my pregnant sister and she continues to thank me for the gift. From what she's told me, expecting mothers will find this book very useful.

Editor of Michele Cozzens' award winning women's fiction A Line Between Friends
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-13 10:01:45 EST)
07-07-08 3 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Lots of useful information but not the most uplifting book.
Reviewer Permalink
I find this book to be a good resource but certainly not the most inspiring. It is scary to ready up on every last potentially negative thing that could happen during a pregnancy. My guess is that many people who read this won't have most of these problems but for those who have them or need to be made aware of them because of their risk factors, it's nice to see a comprehensive guide to provide some basic information. Anyone who relies just upon one source, written or a health professional is deeply misguided. I've yet to find that one perfect book for pregnancy. Pregnant women and their partners need to be responsible for their own health care and consult as many reliable sources of information as possible to make informed decisions for thier individual situation.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-11 13:33:45 EST)
07-04-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good information
Reviewer Permalink
Informative and interesting to read. I'm really glad I got the most recent edition, since there's a lot of good information for all types of pregnant women. All in all, a pretty comprehensive guide.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-08 01:49:25 EST)
07-03-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great Book for ALL Mom's to be!
Reviewer Permalink
This is a great book to give as a gift to any Mom-to-be. It has been around for many, many years and I know many women who love this book.

I have given it as gifts and the New mom's love it~! It clarifies so many of the common fears they are facing with their pregnancy, body, and emotions. In addition, the fathers need and do read this as well.

Definitely, a good one for yourself and a gift!

Merna

Pocket of Pearls: A 30-day pocket workbook to start hearing a softer voice inside of you!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-08 01:49:25 EST)
07-01-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Excellent, well informed, easy to read (for an educated reader)
Reviewer Permalink
I am intelligent and well educated and found this book an excellent read. The previous UK edition fully prepared me for the birth of my first child in England and I have just bought this latest US edition in order to read up on the latest research and stay informed during my second pregnancy in the USA. I have tried reading other books, but found them to be too simplistic, or unrealistic. Some even contained advice that I found to be quite selfish, putting the mother before the baby. Even if you are quite a self-centered person before having a baby, pregnancy is a good time to start getting used to making small sacrifices for your children, because the sacrifices get a lot bigger once the baby is born! (I also highly recommend "What to Expect: The First Year", my "baby bible", which is much more informative and realistic than the currently fashionable Gina Ford's rigid methods.)
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-04 05:25:12 EST)
06-30-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  1st time mom
Reviewer Permalink
I found this book to be very comforting and honest. The authors are straight forward and unbiased. Whether its your first pregnancy or not, its important to have your questions and concerns answered honestly. Theres also some humor that helps ease certian subjects that would otherwise be uncomfortable to talk about. I would recommend this to anyone who is pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-04 05:25:12 EST)
06-29-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Ok
Reviewer Permalink
I have the oldest version of this book and decided it was time for an "updated" version for this pregnancy. Honestly this one doesn't have very much more than the first book. It does have a week by week paragraph on the baby, and the old one just has a month by month one. If you don't have an older one than this one is good to get, but if you do then don't bother to "update".
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-01 21:21:13 EST)
06-23-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Very helpful and comforting
Reviewer Permalink
This book has been very helpful and comforting for this first time mom to be!!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-30 01:42:22 EST)
  
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