Then Comes Baby: An Honest Conversation about Birth, Postpartum, and the Complex Transition to Parenthood

An invaluable resource before, during, and after childbirth that focuses on the parents' experience and well-being.

The transformation to parenthood is arguably the most pivotal and vulnerable journey of a person's entire life. Despite this, pregnant and new parents are often only provided resources regarding how to care for their baby--not for themselves. Parents need to see an authentic representation of what the transformation to parenthood is really like so that they can come out on the other side resilient, whole, and thriving.

In Then Comes Baby: An Honest Conversation about Birth, Postpartum, and the Complex Transition to Parenthood, Jessica Vernon draws from her own experience as an OB/GYN and mom to delve into the physical and mental parts of birth and the postpartum journey that new and expecting parents aren't prepared for because they just aren't talked about. She walks readers through birthing plans, what to expect during labor, the emotional and physical reality once the baby is born, postpartum recovery, hormones, sleep, the myths of motherhood, and more. With an open and empathetic voice, Dr. Vernon shares personal stories and common issues that come up in her own practice to provide guidance, actionable advice, and support without judgment.

The disconnect between the expectations and reality of becoming a parent has left many feeling blindsided, anxious, guilty, and alone. Then Comes Baby looks to change that, preparing and empowering birthing people through the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of becoming a parent.

Jessica Vernon, MD, PMH-C, is a board-certified OB/GYN who has cared for and supported thousands of people throughout their reproductive journeys. She is the clinical director of product as well as associate medical director at Oula, a midwifery-led women's health startup based in New York City. She also serves on the board of Postpartum Support International. As a mom of two, she brings her lived experience to her work. She has a deep passion for providing holistic, person centered, culturally humble care and has developed multiple programs to increase access to perinatal mental health care and improve health equity.