There is no shortage of information about birth. The harder part is knowing where to begin. This library gathers books, conversations, and products we return to and recommend as starting points for continued learning.
Trusted resources for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and early motherhood.
A THOUGHTFUL PLACE TO BEGIN
How to Use This Library
Every resource reflects a particular perspective and should be considered alongside your values, circumstances, and conversations with qualified care providers. You do not have to agree with every viewpoint to learn something useful, ask a better question, or feel more prepared for a decision.
Laurel of Life clients receive additional resources after each session, personalized to the topics we covered together.
Ina May's Guide to Childbirth | Ina May Gaskin
A collection of birth stories and guidance centered on physiologic birth, confidence, and the mind-body connection. Best approached as one perspective within a broader birth education plan.
Real Food for Pregnancy | Lily Nichols
A detailed look at prenatal nutrition through a real-food lens, with research discussion and practical ideas. Use individualized nutrition guidance from your licensed care team when needed.
Real Food for Gestational Diabetes | Lily Nichols
Nutrition-focused education for readers navigating gestational diabetes. Because gestational diabetes requires individualized clinical care, discuss any changes with your qualified healthcare team.
Reclaiming Childbirth as a Rite of Passage | Rachel Reed
An exploration of childbirth through history, physiology, culture, and women's lived experiences, written for readers interested in a holistic perspective on birth.
The First Forty Days | Heng Ou, Amely Greeven, and Marisa Belger
A warm, practical guide to postpartum nourishment, rest, support, and traditions that honor the early weeks after birth.
Books We Recommend
Podcasts We Return To
Birthing Instincts Podcast | Dr. Stuart Fischbein and Midwife Blyss Young
Long-form conversations about birth, maternity care, informed decision-making, and the experiences of families and professionals.
Evidence Based Birth Podcast | Evidence Based Birth
Episodes that translate birth research and explore care practices, common interventions, and questions families may want to discuss with their providers.
Happy Homebirth Podcast | Katelyn Fusco
Birth stories and conversations centered on home birth, preparation, and family experiences. A useful perspective for families exploring out-of-hospital birth with licensed professionals.
The Great Birth Rebellion | Dr. Melanie Jackson
Educational conversations about pregnancy and birth that encourage listeners to examine common practices, research, and their own questions more deeply.
Products We Love
We keep a living collection of products we have personally enjoyed or found useful for mothers and babies. Explore the current list below, and always choose what makes sense for your family, budget, and care team's guidance.
The public library is only a starting point. After each Laurel of Life session, clients receive a more comprehensive collection of resources selected around the specific topics, questions, and next steps discussed together.
Want education and resources shaped around your journey?
Personalized Resources for Clients