Plus Size Pregnancy: What the evidence really says about higher BMI and birth
£12.30
If your answer to any of these questions is “yes” then take a deep breath and read on, because this book is going to help you take back control.
In Plus Size Pregnancy, trusted researcher and bestselling author Dr Sara Wickham guides you through the evidence about higher BMI and birth, exposing the myths and assumptions, the broader issues, and the science behind what we do and don’t know.
• Discover the eye-opening truth about why BMI is a poor measure of health, and why your size or shape has far less impact on your health than you might think.
• Access real data relating to the potential risks of having a higher BMI during pregnancy, birth and beyond.
• Learn from reliable, clear explanations of the evidence relating to the tests and interventions commonly recommended.
• Arm yourself with tips on how to advocate for yourself and your baby.
• Find out the surprising advantages of being larger and learn why some women with a higher BMI might have better outcomes.
This inspiring, science-filled book will help you to empower yourself, providing you with the evidence you need to make informed decisions about your pregnancy, birth and beyond.
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Additional information
| Publisher | Birthmoon Creations (3 Sept. 2023) |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Paperback | 230 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1914465091 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1914465093 |
| Dimensions | 13.34 x 1.32 x 20.32 cm |
by Daniella
As the list of things I need to do or take grows in this pregnancy, I have found the answers I needed in this book to say, nah I don’t think I want to do that thanks.
by JT
From my wife- Such an interesting and informative book, truly filled with so much useful knowledge. It provides clarification on so many topics that have been confusing due to health care provider language and agendas. Thank you for providing this book, I feel lucky to have it during my (plus size) pregnancy to help me make informed decisions
by LindaL
Once again Sara has used her midwifery and research expertise to produce a book which highlights the pathways that pregnant women and birthing people are diverted down purely based on their BMI. She has scoured the available evidence (or lack of it ! ) and has demonstrated that the routine monitoring, anaesthetic appointments in pregnancy, and restriction in having a water birth in a midwifery setting, along with a host of other interventions, is undermining confidence and stigmatising women who live in a larger body, subsequently leading to a poor birth experience. Sara has once again shone a light on the medicalisation of pregnancy and the impact it is having. I am a super fan of Sara and have found her entire series of books to be foundational in my independent birth planning sessions with families.
by Mares142
Another excellent, informative book by the amazing Sara Wickham. So grateful for her on-going contribution to women’s autonomy in maternity care.
by Amazon Customer
Easy to read, giving all the information you need, either as a woman giving birth or as a professional support women in their decision making.
by Rachel Thompson
This book is so grounded. The obstetric clinicians so often focus on the ‘high’ risk side, this book opens up the reality of the minimal risks, if there are any that are actually evidence based. A great read for health care professionals and discerning women who want to be well informed. Hurrah! Let’s hope the common sense of pregnancy risks does prevail!
by Meggan
This book has been incredibly helpful in navigating nhs maternity care as fat preggo. I found myself taking it to midwife appointments and referring to it. I’m now on track to have the home birth or midwifery lead unit birth I was so desperate for. This book and the one about induction “in your own time” gave me the facts and the confidence to be able to advocate for myself. I’m 100% sure without this and some of the other books I’ve been reading I’d have been coerced into a medicalised labour ward birth. There’s still plenty time for things to change but I feel like now if I need to have a labour ward birth it will be because something has changed and it is medically necessary not “just in case” because of my bmi at booking.
Our pregnancy was a little surprise after infertility. So one thing I would say is I wish I got this book way sooner, the anxiety it would’ve saved.
by DJB
Sarah writes beautifully, explaining simple and complicated issues with an unrivalled clarity, compassion, and hint of humour! I always signpost my clients to her work as the best source of honest and realistic information. Her books are unrivalled.
Thank you Sarah, from community midwife Juliet