If you’re undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other fertility treatments, it’s always helpful to read other voices who have gone through similar struggles. These are the best IVF books, whether you’re looking for emotional support or more practical guides about fertility treatments.
Why are IVF books so important?
At The Fertility Clinic of New Orleans, our physicians are at the forefront of IVF research and, between them, have written over 125 published papers on fertility treatments, contributed chapters to dozens of books, and have written textbooks currently is use by other physicians. These books include Managing Contraceptive Pill Patients, Managing Danazol Patients, and the Manual of Intrauterine Insemination and Ovulation Induction.
We know that books provide deeper, more complete pictures of fertility treatments than online sources, both the practical “how it works” side and when examining the emotional impact of infertility. By reading IVF books, you’ll have a better foundation to start from when you undergo your own fertility treatments. Here’s what we recommend reading.
1. Get A Life: His & Hers Survival Guide To IVF by Rosie Bray and Richard Mackney
Too often, IVF stories focus on how women navigate the physical and emotional challenges of infertility. Written by a couple who went through IVF, this book is a welcome take on the complex emotional landscape that both women and men may experience when undergoing fertility treatments.
2. It Starts With The Egg by Rebecca Fett
With a background in molecular biotechnology and biochemistry, Fett presents an accessible take on the latest scientific research about fertility issues. In this book, she discusses actions you can start today to improve your overall egg quality, safeguard your future fertility, and more.
3. IVF A Detailed Guide: Everything I Wish I Had Known Before My Fertility Treatments by Bianca Smith
Many IVF books look at the more scientific or emotional aspects of fertility treatments. Smith’s book is a great counterpoint to these—a hands-on, step-by-step look at the practical aspects of IVF. Her book covers tips on choosing the right clinic, finding an IVF support group, administering your hormone shots, fertility-friendly recipes, and more.
4. Making Babies: Personal IVF Stories by Theresa Miller
When you’re going through IVF treatments, having a support system in place is crucial. This book can be an aspect of that support—a portable, emotional look into how IVF affected the lives of fourteen different writers. By reading through a variety of experiences, you’ll learn that every IVF journey is unique but that you also have a tribe out there who knows and understands the challenges you’re facing.
5. Not Pregnant: A Companion For The Emotional Journey Of Infertility by Cathie Quillet and Dr. Shannon Sutherland
When you begin preparing for fertility treatments, you know to plan for the financial and physical costs. The emotional journey—its highs and lows, its wins and huge losses—is just as important to prepare yourself for. In this indispensable IVF book, Quillet and Dr. Sutherland focus on this emotional side of fertility treatment, from miscarriages to hormonal changes to its ongoing effect on your marriage.
6. The Guud Book: About Infertility by Dr. Camille Hammond
Dr. Hammond is founder and CEO of The Cade Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping families overcome barriers to infertility treatments. Based on her extensive medical background and position at the forefront of infertility advocacy, her IVF book is written in an accessible graphic format that illustrates the very real emotional, physical, and financial challenges of infertility treatment.
Additional IVF writers
Fertility research is always uncovering new findings. Because IVF books take longer to publish, it’s important to follow some leading IVF voices online and in magazines. Some of our favorite writers include:
Want to learn more about your options for fertility treatments? If you’re in Louisiana and adjacent states, contact The Fertility Institute today to talk to one of our fertility doctors about what could work for you and your family. We welcome inquires and questions from all areas of the US.