Becoming a parent can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy for worries to pile up. Instead of spiraling into anxiety, turning to an informative book can bring some peace of mind. But here’s the catch — many resources aren’t written with queer families in mind, making it hard to find the right guidance.
Thankfully, more books are now available that speak directly to the experiences of queer parents-to-be. To make your search easier, we’ve curated a list of some of the best options. So, grab your coziest blanket and a warm drink, and let’s dive into these supportive reads together.
This accessible and authoritative guide delves into key topics such as deciding to become a parent, selecting a donor, and considering adoption, making it an invaluable resource for any prospective LGBTQ+ parent, regardless of what their future family may look like.
Authored by a licensed therapist and experienced lesbian mom, The Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy for Lesbians provides essential information about queer motherhood — from selecting a donor to tracking fertility and understanding the necessary paperwork to protect your parental rights.
Designed specifically for lesbian mothers, this book covers every aspect of pregnancy, from conception to delivery, using accessible language and easy-to-understand charts. It also includes resources on fertility centers and essential information about LGBTQ+ legal matters, like adoption and parental rights.
Authored by two queer midwives, this gender-affirming and body-positive guide focuses on LGBTQ+ family planning. It covers a range of topics, from selecting a sperm donor to navigating pregnancy while honoring gender identity. With a blend of practical advice and personal stories, this resource is insightful and relatable for aspiring LGBTQ+ parents.
Released in 2022, this groundbreaking book is evidence-based, transgender-inclusive, and body-positive. It guides readers through every step of the parenting process, from preconception testing to selecting an insemination method. The book also addresses unique topics, such as lactation for trans women and guidance for non-gestational parents.
Motivated by the lack of mainstream representation of queer families, Lotte Jeffs and Stu Oakley created The Queer Parent. This comprehensive guide for LGBTQ+ people navigating parenthood combines expert insights with personal stories from diverse queer families.
After two years of unsuccessfully trying to conceive, Amie Miller watched her partner prepare for pregnancy instead. Thrust into the role of the non-biological mother, she grapples with her parental identity while navigating the challenges of parenthood from the sidelines. This candid and hilarious memoir offers a unique perspective on parenting outside traditional roles.
Confessions of the Other Mother is a frank and humorous collection of short stories exploring lesbian motherhood. It addresses topics like defining parenting roles, navigating societal perceptions of queer families, and celebrating motherhood in all its forms.
In The Other Mother, comedian and writer Jen Brister shares a side-splitting memoir about non-biological motherhood that’s as refreshing as it is relatable. From the ups and downs of IVF to the challenges of sleep training, Brister's perspective on queer parenting captures it all.
