The question of flying while pregnant comes up quite a lot around the holidays. It’s a common season for moms to be overwhelmed by family expectations and traditions, while simultaneously trying to act like their usual energetic selves even though their reserves are already low. The most important question to ask yourself is, How do you really feel about this trip?

Good books on pregnancy and birth will introduce you to new information, expand your understanding of both details and broader picture, and help you more effectively navigate your childbearing year with clarity and peace. As a midwife, I’ve found that the “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” series does just the opposite! Whether you are a stories person, or relax into lots of good data and studies, find the book(s) that help find your ballast and grow your confidence. Here are some tried and true volumes that generally have reliable info, respectful tones, and empower their readers to more capably navigate their birth journeys and health care experiences.