The chapter opens by linking marriage equality to broader acceptance of gay parenthood, while noting that homophobia persists. A lesbian couple’s concern about potential discrimination is countered by examples of resilience and pride from gay parents and experts, who stress that confident, open communication about family builds respect. Some LGBT people may reject marriage or parenting altogether, and legal steps like second-parent adoption are urged to secure family continuity.

For LGBT couples aligned on parenting, the chapter moves to logistics: pregnancy for lesbians, surrogacy or co-parenting for gay men, and adoption. A checklist guides conversations about support networks, school and community engagement, resolving disagreements, pregnancy versus adoption, surrogacy with donated eggs, who carries a child, and sequencing pregnancies based on age, health, fertility, careers, or other obligations. If partners disagree, the book recommends reflective exercises and, if needed, structured conflict-resolution methods.

The focus then shifts to single parenthood. Many choose it when a suitable partner has not appeared, and the author recounts creating support resources after encountering barriers for single women seeking donor insemination. Initial professional skepticism gave way to recognition that many single mothers by choice thrive. The chapter encourages considering a partnerless, purpose-driven life as another valid path, while naming common single-parent challenges: dating dynamics, child identity questions, possible separation anxieties, prejudice, and the need for supportive professionals—especially for those facing additional biases.

Motivations, joys, and difficulties are weighed. Single parenthood can bring intimate bonding, autonomy in decisions, pride, and interdependence with family and friends, but also isolation, financial and time strain, and social clashes. Voluntary choice distinguishes single parents by choice from those single through loss. Readiness is framed as capacity to love, set limits, and exercise sound judgment.

Practical routes follow. Considerations include finances, social and family reactions, support systems, balancing independence and interdependence, avoiding “wrong reasons,” community resources, and choosing among pregnancy, donor insemination, or adoption. Conceiving via intercourse without disclosure is criticized ethically and poses legal risks; legal counsel is essential if using a known man. Donor insemination options include anonymous and “Yes” donors, with guidance on medical screening, timing, and clinic versus home insemination. Expectations with known donors must be explicit. Adoption is increasingly open to singles and LGBT parents and can suit children who may thrive with one loving parent.