This Pregnant Girl's Reading List

I'm told that most first time mommys to be read like fiends. I'm no different. I've been reading fiendishly on and off (as the cranky tummy has allowed) from the beginning.

In the beginning I read "What to expect when your Expecting" and "The Girlfriends' Guide to Pregnancy." Seriously, I had no idea what to expect or from pregnancy or childbirth and these were very informative. "What to Expect" was especially useful on a scientific level while "Girlfriend's Guide" was more personal and humorous.

A few months ago a switched gears. I spend less time reading about things that could go wrong, medical interventions, and medicated birth and A LOT more time reading about successful natural childbirth, positive reinforcement, relaxation, and stress management. I've read all or part of the following and found them very calming for the most part.

"Babycatcher" by Peggy Vincent
"Ina May's Guide to Childbirth" by Ina May Gaskin
"Spiritual Midwifery" by Ina MAy Gaskin
"Childbirth Without Fear" by Dr. Grantly Dick-Read
"Hypnobabies Home Study Course" by Hypnobabies
"The Birth Partner" by Penny Simkin
"The Doula Advantage" by Rachel Gurevich
"Birth Outside the Box" www.givingbirthnaturally.com

Only time will tell if any of these books will really make an impact when the big day comes, so I plan to post a recap after the fact. Will they help or will I throw it all out the window when I'm in the moment? Please don't answer that question. Positive reinforcement says I'm not wasting my time, so I'm doing my best to ignore the naysayers. If you want to give me advice, just tell me that I can DO IT!