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This month’s selection for RWR Book Club Fat and Fertile by Nicola Salmon
This month’s RWR Book Club selection is Fat and Fertile by Nicola Salmon — a compassionate, empowering guide that challenges the stigma fat people face when trying to conceive. If you’ve ever been told that your weight is the sole reason you can’t get pregnant — or if you’re supporting someone navigating fertility in a fat body — this book will meet you with facts, tools, and deep empathy.
Nicola Salmon is a fat-positive fertility coach and activist, and her work flips the script on harmful medical narratives by offering evidence-based support rooted in body autonomy and choice.
The Book Club Fat and Fertile Reading Guide:
Book Summary
Fat and Fertile addresses the deeply ingrained biases fat people face in reproductive healthcare. From being denied treatment to internalizing blame, many fat folks encounter immense shame when pursuing pregnancy. Salmon breaks down the science, dispels dangerous myths, and shows readers how to advocate for respectful, ethical care.
She doesn’t just say “you’re not broken” — she backs it up with data, scripts, journal prompts, and permission to believe in your body again..
This Book Is Great If You…
- Are tired of apologizing for your size, opinions, or presence
- Want to laugh, cry, and nod along with stories that feel way too familiar
- Need validation that taking up space is powerful
- Appreciate sharp feminist analysis wrapped in real-life humor
Need a Copy?
Click here to grab your copy on Amazon
Why I Chose This Book
At RWR, we know health is not one-size-fits-all and neither is fertility. Fat and Fertile isn’t just a book about getting pregnant. It’s a book about reclaiming body trust, rejecting medical gaslighting, and making empowered choices. It’s a powerful read whether or not you’re trying to conceive, because it speaks to how our culture treats fat bodies and how we can push back.
Suggested 4-Week Reading Plan for Book Club Fat and Fertile
Week 1: Introduction – Chapter 2 (Fatphobia + Fertility Bias)
Week 2: Chapters 3–5 (Evidence + Reframing Health)
Week 3: Chapters 6–8 (Advocacy + Emotional Resilience)
Week 4: Chapters 9–End (Practical Tools + Reflection)
Journal Prompts
- What beliefs about your body and fertility are you ready to challenge?
- How has your weight impacted the care you’ve received — or expected to receive?
- Where do you need more support, clarity, or permission in your journey?
- What truths in this book felt liberating — or even surprising?
FAQ
Q: Do I need to be actively trying to get pregnant to read this book?
A: No. This book is incredibly affirming even if you’re unsure about parenthood. It addresses how fatphobia shows up in reproductive care and how to reclaim your power, no matter your path.
Q: Is this book anti-health or anti-doctor?
A: Not at all. Nicola Salmon advocates for evidence-based care, ethical providers, and informed consent. She supports people in advocating for themselves within — and sometimes outside — the medical system.
Q: Can this book help me prepare for appointments or consults?
A: Yes! It includes advocacy scripts, affirmations, and journaling prompts you can use before and after appointments to stay grounded and confident.
Q: Is there a community or support group to go along with this book?
A: Nicola’s work has inspired a growing community of fat-positive fertility advocates. Check out her site and social media for resources and support options.
Keywords
- fertility and fatness, plus-size pregnancy, health at every size, fat-positive resources, anti-diet fertility
Check out the other book selections in the RWR Book Club
