Expecting Better

Why I'd hand it to you

Frustrated by pregnancy rules that came without explanations, economist Emily Oster wrote this book while expecting her first child. She digs into the research on things like caffeine, alcohol, certain foods, prenatal testing and epidurals, and explains what the evidence actually says. Many women find it empowering and reassuring. The caution: some of her conclusions, especially on light drinking, differ from official medical guidance, and doctors have pushed back. Use it to have better conversations with your doctor, not to replace them. For data-minded parents-to-be, it is a welcome change from fear-based advice.

— Matt Jordan