Giving birth can be -- and should be -- an exciting, positive experience. While every labor and delivery has unique challenges, you can help to make it the best possible experience through a combination of comfort techniques, education and an understanding of options.

This concise guide to pregnancy and childbirth brings you the expertise of a certified nurse-midwife at Mayo Clinic and a certified doula. It's packed with information based on the most current evidence, yet rooted in long-trusted natural methods of caring for laboring women.

With a unique spiral-bound flipbook format, the book's 100+ bite-sized topics can be perused one page at a time while lying in bed, eating breakfast or riding a stationary bike. The front pages offer the most important information for setting up a satisfying childbirth experience, while the back pages add more empowering details, tricks and medical information.

Inside you'll find tips for:

- Creating healthy habits during pregnancy

- Recognizing what's normal as baby grows

- Planning and preparing for the birth -- mentally and practically

- Managing labor pain, including natural techniques and medical options

- Providing crucial support as a labor partner

- Keeping focused on the ultimate goal: a healthy mom and baby

You'll also get the messy truth of what to expect postpartum, advice for enjoying the early days with a newborn and more. Obstetricks equips parents with confidence and an expert toolkit as they prepare for the main event -- welcoming baby to the world.