Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Pregnancy Guide?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

There are many different pregnancy guides on the market, and choosing the best one usually means selecting a comprehensive guide that provides in-depth information about various aspects of pregnancy. A good pregnancy guide should let you know what to expect at every stage of pregnancy and provide information about staying healthy and comfortable. This type of guide should also provide information about pregnancy nutrition, fitness and choosing an obstetrician or midwife. The best guide should also provide details about labor and preparing for childbirth. As unforeseen complications can develop in any pregnancy, the best pregnancy guide will usually include information about common pregnancy complications as well.

The best pregnancy guide typically includes details about pregnancy from conception through delivery. Such a guide should inform you of the bodily changes you can expect throughout pregnancy. It should let you know what is going on inside your body during every stage of pregnancy and explain the changes that will be visible from the outside of your body. For example, it should provide details about fetal changes, weight gain, and your expanding belly. Usually, a good pregnancy guide will also provide details about pregnancy symptoms, including what to expect and how to stay comfortable.

Women are advised to avoid smoking during pregnancy.
Women are advised to avoid smoking during pregnancy.

You may notice increased hunger during pregnancy, but there are some foods that do nothing to contribute to your health, or your developing baby's health, during pregnancy. The best guide will include information about eating nutritionally sound meals and snacks during pregnancy. It may also provide details about substances women are typically advised to avoid during pregnancy, such as drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol. Additionally, the best pregnancy guide will suggest ways to stay fit during pregnancy, such as by exercising with a doctor’s approval.

Labor doesn't always proceed as expected.
Labor doesn't always proceed as expected.

Choosing an obstetrician or midwife is an important part of staying healthy during pregnancy and being well prepared for labor and delivery. As such, the best pregnancy guide will usually provide tips for choosing a health care professional who can help monitor your health during pregnancy; provide treatment when needed; and assist you during labor and delivery. A comprehensive pregnancy guide may also provide information about childbirth setting options; preparing for your due date; and labor and delivery expectations.

Doctors suggest that regular non-weight bearing exercises are good for pregnant women.
Doctors suggest that regular non-weight bearing exercises are good for pregnant women.

Unfortunately, pregnancy, labor, and delivery don’t always proceed as expected. Sometimes complications develop that threaten the health of an expectant mother and her developing baby. The best pregnancy guide should provide you with information about common pregnancy complications and how they can be prevented or treated. The guide you choose should also advise you on what to do if something goes wrong during your pregnancy or while you are in labor.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Women are advised to avoid smoking during pregnancy.
      By: Mr Korn Flakes
      Women are advised to avoid smoking during pregnancy.
    • Labor doesn't always proceed as expected.
      By: olly
      Labor doesn't always proceed as expected.
    • Doctors suggest that regular non-weight bearing exercises are good for pregnant women.
      By: yanlev
      Doctors suggest that regular non-weight bearing exercises are good for pregnant women.
    • Sonograms can help anticipate complications.
      By: Darren Brode
      Sonograms can help anticipate complications.
    • The best pregnancy guide will include information to prepare you for every step of pregnancy.
      By: pedrosala
      The best pregnancy guide will include information to prepare you for every step of pregnancy.
    • Most guides emphasize that pregnant women should eat a nutrient-packed diet.
      By: Milissenta
      Most guides emphasize that pregnant women should eat a nutrient-packed diet.
    • A pregnant woman should seek out a midwife or obstetrician who can help prepare her for labor and delivery.
      By: Felix Mizioznikov
      A pregnant woman should seek out a midwife or obstetrician who can help prepare her for labor and delivery.