Bringing a baby into the world is one of the most beautiful, natural parts of life, but that certainly doesn’t mean it’s easy!

Dr. Heather L. Johnson has been a practicing OB-GYN (obstetrician gynecologist) for 40 years, helping expectant mothers through the pregnancy process and delivering their babies. In “What They Don’t Tell You About Having a Baby: An Obstetrician’s Unofficial Guide to Preconception, Pregnancy, and Postpartum Life,” she shares what she has learned throughout her career to assist parents and parents-to-be of all ages.

This guide covers everything from tips and tricks for a smooth conception, how much caffeine is really okay during pregnancy, how to survive those first several confusing postpartum weeks and everything in between. Dr. Johnson shares the lessons she’s learned from years of experience and includes conversations she’s had with her own patients along with her “Dr. J’s pearls” in an effort to help others. Babies don’t come with an owner’s manual, but “What They Don’t Tell You About Having a Baby” is a great start.