russia has launched a full-scale war in Ukraine. Donate to support Ukraine and protect the world’s peace.

Expecting Better

summary ofExpecting BetterBook by Emily Oster, PhD

12 min
00:00
/
00:00
Get full summary

You’ll learn

  • To monitor your body’s fertility
  • Which exercises are best during pregnancy
  • Reasons to try an epidural
  • About the most common pregnancy risks

first KEY POINT

No woman is left alone during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a momentous chapter in a woman's life, where every choice feels like a huge decision. It's a time when advice and guidance come from everywhere, often overwhelming new mothers.For every new life stage, knowledge becomes an essential asset that helps navigate the onset of challenges. And it's precisely this wisdom that Emily Oster has set out to share with us. She challenges the common knowledge about pregnancy and proves it's not a one-size-fits-all experience.

Women must have the right to control their childbearing gift.

Pregnancy advice has long been shrouded in myth and superstition, leaving expectant mothers to wonder what's safe and what's not. Armed with the power of data and evidence, Oster dismantles these myths one by one. She empowers us to make informed decisions while allowing women to regain control over their bodies. Unfortunately, society still takes childbearing and the subsequent physical and mental changes for granted, leaving women to handle them alone.

However, bearing a child is a unique experience, full of individual circumstances, desires, and priorities. There is no one right path and no universal set of rules. Oster encourages future mothers to balance risks and benefits and make choices that align with their values. From caffeine consumption to prenatal testing, she provides the clarity and transparency needed to make decisions that resonate individually.So, let's start this sprint with an open heart and a curious mind. After all, it can't be scarier than giving birth, right? Let’s find out!

second KEY POINT

Get intimate with your cervix

A common misconception is that parenthood starts with your baby's first cry. However, this is far from the truth: you become a parent even before discovering you're about to be one, right at the time of conception. No wonder this phase is marked by questions, preparation, and scientific inquiry.The most urgent query most partners often have is: “What is the best age to try for a baby?” These numbers often play a significant role for those planning to conceive. After all, we've all heard about the dreaded “advanced maternal age” label, typically applied to those over 35. But here's the truth: fertility doesn't adhere to a strict timetable. Every person's fertility experience is as distinct as their fingerprint.That said, the next question on the list is regarding contraception. For many years, using contraceptives to avoid pregnancy has become a part of many couples’ routines. Shifting from this mindset to actively attempting to conceive is a significant change. When going through this shift, be patient with yourself and your body; pregnancy might not happen instantly.

book cover

Continue reading with Headway app

Continue reading

Full summary is waiting for you in the app

first KEY POINT

The rules of early pregnancy

second KEY POINT

Keeping up with your body

third KEY POINT

The lottery of childbirth

fourth KEY POINT

To suffer or not to suffer?

fifth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Emily Oster is a professor of economics at Brown University and a best-selling author of books on childbirth and parenthood. Her goal is to create a more relaxed environment for pregnant women worldwide.

Join 55+ million learners worldwide

172K 5 reviews on App Store and Google Play

Get started

Frequently asked questions

What is Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong and What You Really Need to Know about?

Expecting Better, written by Emily Oster, challenges traditional pregnancy advice by using data and evidence to guide expectant mothers. The book empowers readers with a more informed perspective on pregnancy choices, questioning long-held beliefs while prioritizing critical thinking.

What are the key takeaways from Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong and What You Really Need to Know?

Key takeaways from Expecting Better include a focus on individual risk assessment, the importance of understanding data behind pregnancy advice, and the flexibility of making informed decisions based on personal values and comfort levels. Oster emphasizes that not all conventional wisdom is applicable to every woman.

Is Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong and What You Really Need to Know worth reading?

Yes, Expecting Better is worth reading for anyone seeking a rational approach to pregnancy. Emily Oster's evidence-based insights offer a refreshing perspective, making it a valuable resource for navigating the often overwhelming information surrounding pregnancy.

How many pages is Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong and What You Really Need to Know and when was it published?

Expecting Better is 368 pages long and was published on April 3, 2019. This length allows for comprehensive coverage of various aspects of pregnancy, presented in an engaging manner.

What insights into pregnancy does Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong and What You Really Need to Know provide?

Expecting Better provides insights into the necessity of questioning conventional wisdom by presenting statistical evidence that helps expectant parents make informed decisions. Oster guides readers through common pregnancy myths and emphasizes the importance of personalized advice based on empirical data.