From Booklist Unlike most guides for new mothers， which focus on practical skills for daily care of infants， this one emphasizes the necessary emotional and psychological transformation required for a woman to become a mother. Psychotherapist Leonhardt-Lupa explores the impact of her own mothering， changes in self-identity， unreasonable expectations for motherhood， and changes in sexuality and the body to help women prepare for the challenges of mothering a new baby. A lengthy case study reinforces her insights. Although Leonhardt-Lupa writes with warmth， she is unflinching in presenting the negative and painful aspects of first-time motherhood， and in the process， she provides unusual and effective reality checks for women who have chosen to assume this responsibility. Kathryn Carpenter Review This book may appeal to psychotherapists and Jungian therapists involved in helping pregnant women overcome self image difficulties....Journal of Human LactationUnlike most guides for new mothers， which focus on practical skills for daily care of infants， this one emphasizes the necessary emotional and psychological transformation required for a woman to become a mother. Psychotherapist Leonhardt-Lupa explores the impact of her own mothering， changes in self-identity， unreasonable expectations from motherhood， and changes in sexuality and body to help women prepare for the challenges of mothering a new baby. A lengthy case study reinforces her insights. Although Leonhardt-Lupa writes with warmth， she is unflinching in presenting the negative and painful aspects of first-time motherhood， and in the process， she provides unusual and effective reality checks for women who have chosen to assume this responsibility.Booklist See all Editorial Reviews