For those going through a fertility treatment, reading can become a refuge, a source of hope, and a comforting companion. In honor of World Book Day, we’ve curated a list of powerful titles to accompany you throughout your journey, reminding you with each page that you are not alone.
Before Pregnancy: When the Desire to Become a Mother Begins
🔹 It Starts with the Egg – Rebecca Fett
In this comprehensive guide, Rebecca Fett, a biochemist and molecular biologist, presents clear, science-backed strategies for women trying to conceive naturally. The book includes detailed information on how to improve egg quality to prevent miscarriage and increase the chances of pregnancy through methods like IVF. Her recommendations focus on lifestyle changes, nutrition, and creating a healthier environment.
🔹 The Art of Waiting – Belle Boggs
Belle Boggs offers an honest and moving narrative that blends personal experience with cultural analysis, exploring how society perceives and interprets the desire for parenthood. Her reflections shed light on the often-silent journey many families face when dealing with infertility, highlighting love, resilience, and transformation along the way.
🔹 El laboratorio mágico – Berta Cortez & Lobao Sineiro
This beautifully illustrated book turns the experience of fertility treatments into a hopeful and imaginative metaphor. The laboratory becomes a magical and safe place for assisted reproduction, helping to reframe the process as one of hope while acknowledging its emotional complexity.
🔹 Buscándote – Fiorella Squadritto & Luz María Lira
A touching story about the journey to have a child and the openness to new ways of building a family. This book shows how the desire to become a mother transforms not just the body, but identity, relationships, and dreams—reminding us that fertility is not defined by a single condition.
🔹 In Vitro – Isabel Zapata
A poetic and deeply personal testimony on in vitro fertilization. Mexican writer Isabel Zapata explores themes of the body, science, and motherhood with sensitivity, offering an intimate and reflective read. This book embraces the depth and complexity of such a personal experience.
During Pregnancy: Embracing Transformation
🔹 What to Expect When You’re Expecting – Heidi Murkoff
Often called “the pregnancy bible,” this book answers countless questions about the journey to motherhood. It's an inclusive and adaptable manual, offering key insights from conception to birth. Ideal for expectant mothers or couples seeking a well-rounded, informed perspective on pregnancy.
🔹 El gran libro del embarazo – Miriam Stoppard
A richly illustrated guide that takes you through the baby’s development, the physical and emotional changes experienced by the mother, and practical tips on preparing for childbirth.
🔹 Maternity and the Encounter with the Own Shadow – Laura Gutman
Laura Gutman invites you on an inner journey to explore the emotional maturity required to face the fears that may surface with the imminent arrival of a child. A deep and transformative read for future mothers.
Postpartum: What Comes Next?
🔹 Cribsheet – Emily Oster
Written by economist and mother Emily Oster, this book uses scientific data to help parents make informed decisions about topics like breastfeeding, returning to work, infant sleep, and more. It's a rational and judgment-free approach to navigating early parenthood.
🔹 The Fourth Trimester – Kimberly Ann Johnson
This guide takes you through the first four months after birth with empathy and spiritual awareness. It focuses on healing your body, mind, and relationships during the often-overlooked postpartum period.
🔹 Operating Instructions – Anne Lamott
A humorous and heartfelt diary from a single mother documenting the first year of her child’s life. Full of raw and emotional moments, this book captures the chaos, love, and vulnerability of new motherhood—offering comfort to those adjusting to this life-changing role.
🔹 La Búsqueda de Somy – Carmen Martínez Jover
A symbolic and deeply moving story for solo mothers by choice. Through Somy’s journey, this book explains IVF to children in a gentle and loving way, while also addressing assisted reproduction and the emotional path to conception. A valuable resource for families navigating these conversations.
These books offer valuable insights into the wide range of emotions that can arise during fertility treatments, pregnancy, and postpartum. Each title has been carefully chosen to support, guide, and provide clarity during uncertain times. At Fertilidad Integral, we walk with you offering the care and support you need at every stage of your journey.
