Pregnancy is often filled with excitement, anticipation, and a flood of information about birth. But just as important as preparing for labour is understanding what comes after: the postpartum period and the profound transformation of matrescence – the psychological, emotional, and physical shift into motherhood.Â
By prioritising maternal health – both physical and emotional – mothers can step into this new chapter feeling supported, nourished, and empowered. No matter your birth plan or parenting style, these books offer the wisdom and support that every mother deserves.
The Complete Australian Guide to Pregnancy and Birth
By Sophie Walker & Jodi Wilson
Considered a must-read for expectant mothers, The Complete Australian Guide to Pregnancy and Birth is a modern, evidence-based resource that demystifies pregnancy and birth through the lens of real women’s experiences. Drawing on expertise from midwives, doctors, and birth professionals, this book provides expectant mothers with everything they need to make informed decisions about their care. From navigating the medical system to understanding different birth settings, it empowers women to approach their birthing experience with confidence and clarity.
Beyond clinical information, this book also offers emotional support, acknowledging the fears, hopes, and unknowns of pregnancy and labour. Through its collection of birth stories from diverse backgrounds, it reassures women that no two births are the same and that each mother’s journey is valid and important. The gentle, compassionate tone makes it a valuable companion for anyone preparing for birth in Australia.
Purchase here.
The Postnatal Depletion Cure
A Complete Guide to Rebuilding Your Health & Reclaiming Your Energy | By Dr. Oscar Serrallach
Many new mothers experience exhaustion, brain fog, and mood swings long after birth, yet these symptoms are often dismissed as a normal part of motherhood. Dr. Oscar Serrallach challenges this notion in The Postnatal Depletion Cure, revealing that postnatal depletion – a condition caused by nutrient deficiencies, hormonal shifts, and chronic sleep deprivation – can persist for years if left unaddressed. This book is a game-changer for mothers seeking to reclaim their health and vitality.
By focusing on nutrition, sleep, and emotional well-being, The Postnatal Depletion Cure provides actionable steps for mothers to rebuild their energy stores and restore balance in their lives. Whether you’re a new mother or years postpartum, this book offers validation and solutions for common but often ignored health concerns, making it an essential read for long-term well-being.
Purchase here.
The First Forty Days
The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | By Heng Ou, Amely Greeven & Marisa Belger
Postpartum recovery is often overlooked in a society that pressures new mothers to ‘bounce back’ immediately after birth. The First Forty Days reintroduces the ancient practice of confinement – a period of intentional rest, nourishment, and healing that allows a mother to recover fully and bond with her newborn. Inspired by the Chinese tradition of zuo yuezi, this book provides a thoughtful approach to postpartum care that emphasises self-care and community support.
This book is a practical guide filled with warming, healing recipes designed to restore a mother’s energy and well-being. From nourishing soups to lactation-boosting teas, the recipes are tailored to support postpartum recovery while being simple enough for loved ones to prepare. In addition to food, it offers guidance on establishing a postpartum support system, managing relationships, and setting realistic expectations for new motherhood.
Purchase here.
Life After Birth
A Guide to Prepare, Support and Nourish You Through Motherhood | By Jessica Prescott & Vaughne Geary
Life After Birth acknowledges that postpartum extends far beyond the first six weeks – it is a continuous transition that evolves over months and years. This beautifully designed book combines practical advice with heartfelt wisdom, offering insights into postpartum nutrition, breastfeeding, sleep, and self-care. Jessica Prescott and Vaughne Geary bring their experience as postpartum doulas and founders of Mama Goodness, ensuring their approach is both nurturing and deeply informed.
What sets this book apart is its holistic approach to motherhood, recognising the importance of honouring the body’s changes and acknowledging the emotional ups and downs of this phase. From nourishing recipes to strategies for managing family dynamics, it is a reassuring and practical companion for new mothers navigating the complexities of early motherhood.
Purchase here.
Village for Mama
Nourishment for the Fourth Trimester | By Leila Armour
Building a village of support is crucial during the postpartum period, and Village for Mama provides a tangible way to involve loved ones in a new mother’s recovery. This book is both a postpartum recipe collection and an interactive tool that helps friends and family contribute meals during the fourth trimester. Featuring 44 nutrient-dense recipes designed in collaboration with a naturopath, it caters to all dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options.
What makes Village for Mama special is its set of recipe gift cards, which can be shared with friends and family to organise homemade meal giving. This thoughtful approach fosters community and ensures new mothers receive the nourishment they need without the added stress of meal preparation. A perfect baby shower gift, this book helps create a much-needed postpartum support system.
Purchase here.
Golden Month
Caring for the World’s Mothers After Childbirth | By Jenny Allison
Golden Month takes a global perspective on postpartum care, drawing from traditional practices around the world to create a holistic approach to maternal recovery. Written by acupuncturist and teacher Jenny Allison, this book debunks the myth of the ‘perfect postpartum body’ and instead focuses on long-term well-being, both physically and mentally.
In addition to exploring the cultural wisdom of postpartum care, Golden Month provides nutrient-dense recipes and practical guidance for ensuring optimal healing. Whether it’s prioritising warmth, nourishing foods, or emotional support, this book highlights the essential elements of postpartum recovery that modern mothers often overlook. It’s an invaluable resource for any woman looking to honour her body and mind during this period.
Purchase here.
Mama Rising
Discovering the New You Through Motherhood | By Amy Taylor-Kabbaz
The transition to motherhood is more than just a physical change – it is an identity shift known as matrescence. Mama Rising delves into this often-overlooked experience, offering deep insight into the emotional and psychological transformation that comes with becoming a mother. Drawing on research and personal experience, Amy Taylor-Kabbaz provides a compassionate exploration of the challenges new mothers face, from identity struggles to emotional overwhelm.
Unlike traditional parenting books, Mama Rising focuses on the mother’s experience, offering practical tools to help women reconnect with themselves while navigating the demands of motherhood. By acknowledging the emotional weight of this transition, the book provides validation and guidance, empowering mothers to embrace their new role while maintaining their sense of self.
Purchase here.
This article includes affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. These commissions help support our work at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products or services that align with our values and that we believe will provide value to our readers. While we recommend products and services we genuinely believe in, we do not guarantee their quality or suitability.
