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Research Proposal

One of the benefits of living in the digital age is that we have so much information that is quick and easy to access and we can find the answers to any questions ranging from what’s the weather today to how do I turn on my washing machine within seconds. However, having access to such an abundance of information is a relatively new experience and in the past knowledge was not so easily acquired. For my research paper, I want to look at the experience of pregnancy throughout history and the ways in which women sought to learn about the changes their bodies were going through. 

One of the best resources for the modern pregnant woman is the book “What to Expect When You’re Expecting.” Commonly hailed as, “the pregnancy bible,” it was first released in 1984 and it is estimated that more than 90 percent of expectant mothers have read it. This book details all of the stages of pregnancy and offers practical advice to expectant mothers about how to adjust their lives to their pregnancies.

Women who become pregnant in the digital age have access to endless resources that answer any questions about what they’re going through and what they can expect during those 9 months. While there is a lot of misinformation on the internet, it is reasonable to assume that most resources are backed by sound scientific research or anecdotal evidence.

Much like modern women, women in the 19th century mostly relied on advice from their nurse, midwife, or physician. However, they also had manuals or pamphlets that gave advice on everything from conception and pregnancy to nursery decoration, child rearing, and teenage rebellion.

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