Belly Laughs

If you're looking for an entertaining quick read about pregnancy, "Belly Laughs" by Jenny McCarthy is a decent selection.

In "Belly Laughs," the famed Jenny McCarthy shares the embarrassing aspects of pregnancy that most women would prefer to suffer privately. Jenny's account of her first pregnancy is quite amusing, albeit it may lead you to perceive those 9 months as more extreme than they can be (and are from my experience). For example: Jenny gained nearly 40 pounds before the end of her 2nd trimester (nearly 60 overall); I'm in my 6th month and have gained only 2 pounds. I was concerned about the lack of weight gain at first; but, when asked, my OB said this is normal for first pregnancies, especially if the woman keeps to a healthy diet and remains active, with moderate exercise at least a few times a week (all things that I have been doing religiously). Research suggests that an expectant mom who exercises moderately several times per week during pregnancy is less likely to have a child that later struggles with obesity. Jenny's weight gain was not only not an essential part of pregnancy but it also was unhealthy for both her and the baby (she states all she wanted to eat was junk food).

Jenny also seemed to think that it's normal for expectant women to develop split personality during pregnancy, with a "Psycho Bitch" version of themselves looming in the darkness waiting to be provoked in the mildest manner by their husbands and then coming out to throw things and verbally abuse him. My husband has not suffered any of this; some might say he is lucky. I have experienced some extra sensitivity on occasion, with my emotionality tending toward tears over screaming. This likely speaks to the disposition and personality differences between me and Jenny. Pregnant women are hormonal, yes; but it isn't a given that the elevated hormone levels should translate into violence and verbal abuse.

Those are just a few of the notable differences between my pregnancy and Jenny's, based on her narrative in "Belly Laughs". The extreme (possibly slightly exaggerated) account of her pregnancy adds to the comic quality of the book and makes for a more entertaining read. I would recommend the book to any pregnant woman who wants to feel better about her pregnancy experience (Jenny has just about everything a woman could have and she usually has it full blown). Just remember, this is one privileged woman's account of her pregnancy; it's okay if you don't relate with or agree with every aspect of her pregnancy or action during it. In fact, it's probably in your best interest to try not to emulate her in any way.