Molly Millwood's To Have and to Hold: Motherhood, Marriage, and the Modern Dilemma explores the complex challenges women face in new motherhood. Drawing on her experiences as a clinical psychologist and a mother, Millwood examines the emotional and psychological shifts that accompany this life stage. She addresses themes of self-worth, autonomy, and dependency within intimate relationships, offering insights and guidance for women to reclaim their identities and navigate feelings of guilt and shame. With a compassionate tone, Millwood affirms that the struggles of motherhood are shared experiences, shedding light on the often-overlooked complexities of this transformative journey.

Jancee Dunn's How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids addresses the often unspoken tensions that arise in marriages following the arrival of children. Through her personal experiences and research, Dunn reveals how the dynamics of domestic labor and parenting can lead to resentment and conflict between partners. She offers practical advice, such as clearly dividing household responsibilities and fostering open communication, to help couples navigate these challenges. Dunn emphasizes the importance of understanding each other's feelings and needs to prevent misunderstandings and promote teamwork. Ultimately, the book serves as a guide for couples seeking to strengthen their relationship amidst the chaos of parenthood, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.

Emily Oster's Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong – and What You Really Need to Know challenges traditional pregnancy advice by providing data-driven insights that empower expectant parents. Oster, an economist, critically examines common pregnancy guidelines, revealing inconsistencies and outdated information often perpetuated by medical professionals. Through her research, she encourages parents to make informed decisions based on evidence rather than fear or societal pressure. The book covers a wide range of topics, from prenatal care to labor and delivery, and includes practical summaries at the end of each chapter to help readers navigate their choices. Ultimately, Expecting Better serves as a refreshing resource for those seeking clarity in the often confusing landscape of pregnancy advice.

Alexandra Sacks and Catherine Birndorf's What No One Tells You: A Guide to Your Emotions from Pregnancy to Motherhood offers a candid exploration of the emotional landscape that accompanies pregnancy and early motherhood. Drawing on their expertise as reproductive psychiatrists, the authors debunk the "bliss myth" that suggests motherhood is solely a joyful experience, instead highlighting the complexities and challenges new mothers often face. They address common feelings of anxiety, ambivalence, and inadequacy, reassuring readers that such emotions are normal during the transformative process known as "matrescence." With practical advice and insights, Sacks and Birndorf empower women to navigate their emotional journeys, fostering a sense of community and understanding among mothers who may feel isolated in their struggles.