Our Top Five Books About Gestational Surrogacy Every Intended Parent Should Read

As an intended parent, you know full well that wherever you are in the gestational surrogacy journey, you are waiting. The waiting is often the worst part of the journey, without a doubt. You’ve probably found yourself finding little tasks to perform to keep your mind occupied, but once all of the dishes are washed, laundry is folded and your work day is done, it can be hard not to focus on the waiting. In these times, you can always turn to reading a book. 

This week, Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Reno is going to offer up some great options for books about gestational surrogacy, and why they’re great choices for intended parents to read.

1. Surrogacy Was the Way: Twenty Intended Mothers Tell Their Stories

What’s it about?

As the title suggests, this series details the journeys of twenty different women and what can cause a woman to turn to gestational surrogacy. For some, their infertility is due to a pre-existing condition. For others, it’s completely unknown. 

Why it’s good for intended parents to read:

This is a great read for those who are at the beginning of their gestational surrogacy journey. Although it’s a bit dated (published in 2006) and some laws have changed, the heart of their stories is the same. It is a story that any intended mother, hopeful or waiting, can identify with.

2. A Gay Couple’s Journey Through Surrogacy – Intended Fathers

What’s it about?

This memoir details the author (Michael Menichiello), and his husband’s journey into gestational surrogacy. Told through a series of thoughts by the author, the reader is taken on a unique expedition into the highs and lows of being part of a gay couple looking to become intended parents.

Why it’s good for intended parents to read:

A Gay Couple’s Journey is an in-depth look into one person’s perspective. Sometimes, it’s just good to know that when you’re at your most anxious, impatient or feeling blue, you’re not alone. You aren’t the only person who has had these feelings during the gestational surrogacy journey. Having that knowledge can help ease the tensions that you feel during your wait.

3. Labor of Love: Gestational Surrogacy and the Work of Making Babies (Families in Focus)

What’s it about?

Author Heather Jacobsen takes the reader on a ride of a lifetime, interviewing gestational carriers, intended parents and the professionals who help both parties through the gestational surrogacy journey.

Why it’s good for Intended Parents to read:

As mentioned above, the author interviews various players in the gestational surrogacy journey. This is invaluable information for any intended parent to have. It not only gives a bit of insight into what you can expect for yourself, but also sheds some light on the other aspects of the journey. Having an idea as to what your gestational carrier is experiencing is a great way to build the relationship between you. Also, seeing some of what the “behind-the-scenes” looks like can help you understand more of how the ins and outs of the journey work.

4. I Got Drunk at my Baby Shower: Our Successful Surrogacy Story

What’s it about?:

Susan Bowen, a cancer survivor, recovers from a hysterectomy and commits herself to hosting parties, scrapbooking and her marriage. She has always wanted children, though, and doesn’t let that desire fizzle out. Heidi Thompson is a devoted mother and a hard worker who decides that she may like to look into becoming a gestational carrier. These two narratives merge into a beautiful memoir about hope, love and awareness.

Why it’s good for intended parents to read:

This is a great choice for intended parents who are at the matching stage of their journey. Having a happy and healthy relationship with your gestational carrier is just as important as any other relationship in your life. After all, the two of you will be in each other’s lives for at least nine months! Heidi and Susan’s story can help any intended parent get the ball rolling with their gestational carrier.

5. Sophia’s Broken Crayons

What’s it about?:

This children’s book, meant for kids aged 2-6, explains surrogacy in metaphor. Sophia discovers her crayons are broken, and is heartbroken. Her friend offers to share her crayons. Through this, Sophia learns about how to help friends in need, while also watching her own parents give the gift of gestational surrogacy to their friends.

Why it’s good for intended parents to read:

This is an especially good choice for intended parents to read to their young children who may not understand what exactly is going on. It answers questions that they may have, such as “Why can’t everyone have a baby?” and “Why would someone choose to become a gestational carrier?”

Books About Gestational Surrogacy

Every intended parent can feel overwhelmed at times and as though they’re alone in feeling the way they do. These books are proof that you’re not the only person who has felt anxious or frustrated during their journey; that you are a part of a community that has been where you are. That on its own can help immensely.

Are there any titles that you think should have been mentioned in this entry? Were there some you thought didn’t belong on this list? Let us know in the comments!

If you’re ready to get started on your gestational surrogacy journey, either as a gestational carrier or an intended parent, go ahead and get in contact with us! We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have, and would be honored to help you get started on your journey!

Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Nevada in Reno is here for you. Contact Us 24/7: 855-940-4673 (Toll-Free) | 702-474-4673 (Las Vegas) | 775-825-4673 (Reno) | 775-738-4673 (Elko) | 775-884-4673

Be well and stay safe, friends!

Meet the Author: Mallorey English is an aspiring proofreader and editor. She’s completed a couple of online courses through Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) and has used her education to help edit her mother’s inspirational book, Monday Motivation: 52 Weeks of Inspiration to Keep Moving in 2018 and running blog Life Up and Running. She hopes to one day become a full time freelance editor. 

When she isn’t working, Mallorey can be found on a yoga mat, crafting a new project, or watching her favorite movies. She currently resides in northern Nevada with her husband and hopes to add on to their family in the near future.