Complete book of pregnancy - Daphne Metland

The NCT Complete Book of Pregnancy draws on the National Childbirth Trust's unparalleled expertise and experience in the field of childcare to guide new mothers calmly through what can be one of the most daunting periods of their life.

The book focuses on a young mother (20-25), an older mother (35-40) and a second-time mother through their pregnancy.

The women's personal accounts are accompanied by comments, tips and advice from the NCT experts, together with essential, clearly presented factual information. Each key stage of pregnancy is photographed.

Each pregnancy is divided up into four key stages:

First Trimester: (up to 12 weeks) planning for the early stages; how to cope with pregnancy sickness; what's on offer in antenatal care; sensible diet; how to deal with miscarriage or termination
Second Trimester: (12 to 28 weeks) diet, exercise and weight gain; adjusting your workload; relationships and sex; preparing a child for the arrival of a sibling
Third Trimester: birth preparation through relaxation, breathing exercises and massage; preparing for labour; being overdue.
Stage 4 - The Birth: what actually happens in labour; long/short labours; caesareans; assisted deliveries.
Stage 4 - After the Birth; body changes and new emotions; feeding your baby; settling in at home; postnatal exercises and classes.

Beautfully illustrated and packed with instructive colour photographs, the The NCT Complete Book of Pregnancy is the ultimate pregnancy companion.