Chapter 1. Giving Birth to Meaning: Understanding Parenthood Through the Psychology of Meaning in Life (Jessica L. Morse, Michael F. Steger) -- Chapter 2. The Experience of Infertility: An Unexpected Barrier in the Transition to Parenthood (Brennan Peterson, Jean Marie S. Place) -- Chapter 3. In Pursuit of Parenthood: The Highs and Lows of Fertility Treatment (Vera Skvirsky, Orit Taubman - Ben-Ari) -- Chapter 4. Fertility Problems and Fertility Care in Sub-Sharan Africa: The Case of Kenya (M. W. Bos Henny, B. van Rooij Floor, Tammary Esho, Wanjiru Ndegwa, Aida Bilajbegovic, Benjamin Kioko, Luca Koppen, Kemunto Migiro, Solomon Mwendah, Trudie Gerrits).

This volume explores the transition to parenthood from a holistic developmental approach, relating to barriers such as fertility problems and traumatic childbirth, as well as pathways such as positive experiences of pregnancy and childbirth. It presents an extended process, beginning with infertility issues, continuing with subjects pertaining to decisions regarding parenthood, pregnancy and birth, and ending with the early stages of parenthood from a positive psychology perspective. The volume draws on theories of resilience, meaning, terror management, and attachment, and considers psychological, sociological, legal, policy, medical, and therapy issues. It relates to the developmental needs of individuals and couples, as well as to the role played by family, society, and the media, offering a comprehensive in-depth evaluation of the latest topics.