As midwives it is always useful to be aware of what women or birthing people are reading as they prepare for pregnancy, or to point to good evidence-based resources. In this article Sheena Byrom, Midwife and Director of All4maternity reviews such a book that has been created by midwife Laura Godfrey-Isaacs alongside illustrator Lily Williams, to provide a pictorial and accessible guide to educate and support through the journey to parenting. If you would like to contribute a review to Maternity & Midwifery Forum please let us know!
Pregnancy and Birth: A Graphic Guide is a refreshing and much-needed contribution to maternity literature, blending accessibility with rigour in a way that few resources manage to achieve. I was delighted and honoured to be given the opportunity to read a pre-print copy and to offer my thoughts on the book.
Firstly, the book strikes an impressive balance between being accessible and practical while firmly grounded in evidence. The use of engaging illustrations and clear, concise explanations makes it particularly valuable for those who may find large blocks of text overwhelming. The design transforms complex medical and social concepts into digestible insights without ever compromising accuracy.
What makes this guide stand out is its commitment to inclusivity. The illustrations and narratives are consciously and consistently representative of people of all nationalities, skin tones, abilities, and gender orientations. This ensures that readers—whether parents or maternity care workers —see themselves reflected in its pages. By foregrounding diversity, the book challenges traditional norms in maternity resources, making space for everyone’s experience of pregnancy and birth.
The guide bravely addresses power dynamics in maternity care, offering straightforward examples to illuminate vital issues such as bodily autonomy and human rights. It also provides brief but meaningful entry points into more philosophical and feminist perspectives on childbirth. In doing so, the book not only informs but also encourages deeper reflection and dialogue.
Another strength lies in the way it debunks myths and tackles uncomfortable realities, such as racism and inequalities within maternity care. These topics are often ignored or glossed over in mainstream resources, but here they are brought to light with sensitivity and clarity, encouraging readers to engage critically with the structures shaping maternity experiences.
From fertility and conception, through pregnancy and birth, to the postnatal period, the guide provides a well-rounded journey. Importantly, it presents differing perspectives, inviting readers to explore areas of personal interest more deeply. This balanced approach respects the reader’s autonomy, reinforcing the book’s underlying ethos.
For me, where this book truly excels is in its innovative use of art to share knowledge. The visual storytelling is not only engaging but also transformative, offering a means of communication that transcends literacy levels, cultural barriers, and medical jargon.
Pregnancy and Birth: A Graphic Guide is a book that aims to inform, empower, and inspire. It is perfectly suited for parents and those working or engaged in providing maternity care, providing accessible yet thought-provoking insights into every stage of the reproductive journey. By centring inclusivity, human rights, and evidence-based care, it sets a new standard for how we talk about pregnancy and birth.
Sheena Byrom
Director, All4maternity
November 2025