Product Reviews

by Yehudi Gordon published by Vermillion

Quite simply, 'exactly what it says on the tin!' It's a comprehensive A to Z of mother and baby health from pregnancy, birth and up to a year postnatal. This is the kind of book you'll use as a reference to look up pregnancy niggles such as that pain in the derrière (sciatica, not the other half), or for times when you're unsure when to call the doctor whilst trying to get to grips with your 'mother's instinct' after your new baby arrives.

Where appropriate, it not only gives standard medical advice but also offers complimentary therapy alternatives. So for example, if you are suffering from low milk supply when breastfeeding, it will give you the standard medical guidelines for increasing your supply, but also talk about homeopathic and aromatherapy remedies to try.

The book is set out in reference style which makes it easy for you to find what you're looking for quickly. As a first timer, you're likely to devour all the information you can get your hands on and may read it from start to finish. But it's also great to delve into as and when needed. This makes it a great resource for both new and experienced parents alike.

The writing style of the book is spot on; it neither drowns you in medical jargon so you need a dictionary to read it, nor treats you like an idiot. It's short, sharp and concise but gives you enough detail to familiarise you on a subject rather than confuse you further!

I hate it when you buy a book that's been printed cheaply so that when you open it, the pages break down the spine, fall out and get lost (you can guarantee you'll loose the page on mastitis just when you need it). Well its money well spent on this book as it's been bound beautifully! It looks nice too - font isn't too small and the layout is great for easy referencing. It'll look great on the coffee table!

What's nice about this book is that it touches on emotional wellbeing as well as physical. So, in addition to defining a condition, it talks about how you may feel and offers suggestions for support or an action plan. I liked the author's writing style - it's friendly without being patronising and easy to understand.

There aren't any!

Best Feature: It will appeal to new and experienced parents alike so will be a good investment as you know you’ll use it again. And the pages won’t snap out (very important for a reference book!). Worst Feature: It hurts if you drop it on your foot like I did. Verdict: If you only buy one book, get this one. It will see you through pregnancy, birth and beyond and answer most questions.

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