cover image Pregnancy Care Book

Pregnancy Care Book

Michele Farrugia, Jacqueline Thomas, Paul Bernstein. Robert Rose, $29.95 (480pp) ISBN 978-0-7788-0226-6

Readers will be drawn to this volume by full-color photos and charts on almost every page, smart organization and sleek design: a month-by-month of expected obstetrician procedures makes appointments predictable, and there's a miasma of information regarding illnesses that may affect women and their fetuses. Unfortunately, a one-sided view of the birth process-through the lens of hospital-based medical obstetricians-means that information on less-prescribed methods is lacking, keeping parents from formulating truly educated opinions. Epidural anaesthesia and other medical interventions are introduced with a list of benefits and very few attendant risks; meanwhile, doctors Farrugia, Thomas and Bernstein provide only a cursory look at other birth philosophies, including home-birth. Still, several sections are complete, and even empowering, including a section on exercise for every stage of pregnancy and a chapter on nutrition. Ultimately, however, this well-planned volume contains no new information, and provides a less-than-comprehensive picture of contemporary pregnancy options.