The birth of a child can provoke profound change in a woman-in her health, career, emotions, sex life, and relationships with friends, husband and family. Pregnancy and childbirth radically alter a women's body and metabolism--it's virtually impossible to "bounce back" quickly after childbirth. And many new moms discover that their sex lives and social lives--and with them, their self esteem--evaporate with a new baby, who they somehow seem to have been made wholly responsible for.

Life After Birth doesn't cloak the truth in pastel colors, but explores the actual physical, psychological and emotional consequences of giving birth. Through extensive research and interviews, Figes tackles the tough realities of a new mother's life. What she discovered can help a new parent face some of the most difficult decisions she'll ever have to make.