Upcoming Book ‘Then Comes Baby’ Prepares New Parents For How Their Lives Will Transform

New parents have access to reams of information to teach them how to care for an infant, but an upcoming book aims to teach them what it’s really like to become a parent, and how to navigate the transition.

“Then Comes Baby: An Honest Conversation about Birth, Postpartum, and the Complex Transition to Parenthood,” written by Jessica Vernon, MD, offers an authentic representation of what the transformation to parenthood is really like. Vernon, an OB/GYN and mom, draws from her own experience to prepare expecting and new parents for the physical and mental parts of birth and the postpartum journey that just aren’t talked about enough.

“This book prepares you for parenthood mentally, physically, and emotionally,” Dr. Vernon says. “This is one of the most transformative times in your life and as an OB/GYN, I want to have an honest conversation about birth, postpartum and the complex transition to parenthood.”

“Then Comes Baby” walks parents-to-be through birthing plans, what to expect during labor, the emotional and physical realities once baby arrives, postpartum recovery, hormones, sleep, the myths of motherhood, and more.

Along with sharing insights from common issues that she sees in her practice, Dr. Vernon shares her own vulnerable story about navigating postpartum anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. In a warm, empathetic voice, Dr. Vernon shares non-judgmental guidance and actionable advice.

“You, the birth parent, matter just as much as your baby does, and I never want another new parent to feel as shocked, overwhelmed, and alone as I did,” Vernon says.

“Then Comes Baby,” from Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, hits shelves in May 2025.