FINDING YOUR PATH
"Whether through single parenthood, donors, fostering, adoption, or other alternatives, we can write our own motherhood stories. The key is to recognize what you truly want and be brave enough to pursue it on your own terms."
- Cheri Bergeron
There's no single "right way" to become a mother. Your path may involve a combination of approaches or change over time. The resources in the following sections can help you explore specific options in greater depth.
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"Mission: Motherhood: Writing a New Fairy Tale of Love and Family" by Cheri Bergeron
A gripping memoir about navigating multiple paths to motherhood including fostering, IVF, donor conception, and legal battles. Cheri shares her raw and honest story about her challenging journey, which included foster parenting, fertility treatments, anonymous donors, and losing a child.
"Three Makes Baby Workbook" by Jana Rupnow
Explores the emotional and ethical aspects of donor conception and family building. This book provides valuable insights for women considering donor options.
"Single Mothers by Choice" by Jane Mattes
A foundational text with practical and emotional guidance for women considering motherhood without a partner.
"Choosing Single Motherhood" by Mikki Morrissette
A research-rich, inclusive look at the journey and realities of solo parenting.
"The Single Mother's Social Club" by Jacinta Tynan
Honest and uplifting, especially good for navigating judgment or doubt.
"Going Solo" by Genevieve Roberts
Memoir-style exploration of choosing solo motherhood via donor conception.
"Motherhood Reimagined" by Sarah Kowalski
For women who hit fertility roadblocks and reimagined their paths.
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Fertility-Specific Therapists
Finding a therapist who specializes in family-building decisions can be invaluable as you navigate your options.
Postpartum Support International Directory
Search for specialists in fertility, donor conception, and family building.
https://psidirectory.comThrive Psychology Group
Specializes in supporting women through fertility and family-building decisions.
https://www.mythrivepsychology.com/Oaktown Therapy (Women of Color in California)
Specialized support for women of color navigating fertility and family-building decisions.
https://www.oaktowntherapy.com/PSI (Postpartum Support International)
Offers specific groups for single mothers and perinatal support.
https://postpartum.netDecision-Making Resources
Creating a Family
Comprehensive, unbiased resources covering all family-building options from a non-profit organization.
https://creatingafamily.orgRESOLVE: The National Infertility Association
Offers support groups, educational resources, and advocacy for anyone exploring fertility options.
https://resolve.org -
Organizations
Single Mothers by Choice (SMC)
The original community for women choosing solo motherhood. Offers private forums organized by stage: Thinking, Trying, Pregnant, Parenting, local meetups, and virtual groups.
https://www.singlemothersbychoice.orgThe Single Greatest Choice
Podcast and resource hub for women considering or pursuing single motherhood. Covers sperm donor conception, emotional readiness, and financial preparation.
https://www.singlegreatestchoice.comOnline Groups
Facebook Groups
Reddit Communities
Social Media
Instagram Accounts
Podcasts
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SeedCoach
Fertility-specific financial coaching to help you plan for various family-building options.
https://www.yourseedcoach.com/Future Family
Financing options for fertility treatments and family building.
https://www.futurefamily.comHealth Savings Accounts (HSA/FSA)
Can sometimes be used for donor sperm, insemination, and fertility-related care—check with your provider.