Pregnancy Myths is a unique primer on what not to expect when you're expecting. The book is organized into 20 topical chapters, from "The Due Date" and "Diet" to "Pain Relief in Labor" and "Fetal Hearth." Within each chapter, Dr. Benson discusses up to ten popular ideas about pregnancy -- and shows why they're false or unsubstantiated. Among the myths exploded: pregnancy over age 35 is "high risk"; Nutrasweet is not safe for pregnant women; cramping in the first trimester is a sign of miscarriage; pregnant women should not take medicine; epidural anesthesia is dangerous and commonly results in paralysis: pregnant women should not take hot baths; and a leading cause of mental retardation is lack of oxygen during labor. A reservoir of up-to-date medical knowledge, this vital reference will help expectant women separate fact from superstition -- and make informed decisions about their pregnancies.
Birth Day! is a one-of-a-kind guide to pregnancy's final hours. Writing with warmth and authority, Dr. Benson elucidates birthing options, dispels myths, and tells women exactly what to expect after their water breaks. From dilation and contractions to epidurals and episiotomies, from Lamaze breathing and birthing coaches to midwives and M.D.s, from breech births and cesarean sections to premature and postterm births, he gives women all the information they need to have a safe and joyous delivery. Organized in a friendly question-and-answer format and filled with expert advice. Birth Day! is a wonderfully reassuring guide for every woman approaching her due date.
Now published together in a single volume, these two extraordinary guides will be required reading for expectant mothers everywhere.
