Think you know teen moms? Think again. If your first mental image is a cautionary tale, you’re not alone — but you might be missing the real, rich story. Leila Mottley’s latest novel, The Girls Who Grew Big, is shaking up the narrative and inviting us all to reconsider what it really means to be a young mother.

Mottley follows three young women navigating pregnancy and motherhood in a small Florida town, not through pity or stereotype but with raw honesty, compassion, and strength. The novel is described as an extension of her work as a doula, someone who supports women through pregnancy and childbirth — and that perspective makes all the difference.

So what’s the big deal? Why should you care?

Because stories shape how society treats people. Teen moms are often boxed into harmful misconceptions — seen as irresponsible, doomed to fail, or as mere statistics. But The Girls Who Grew Big reveals their hopes, challenges, and fierce love, reminding us that every journey to motherhood is deeply personal and complex.

But here’s the twist: while traditional support systems may overlook or dismiss young moms, today’s world offers new and empowering ways to change the narrative.

Speaking of empowerment, have you ever heard of making conception accessible and less intimidating?

That’s where innovative solutions like MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits come into play. Whether you’re a teen mom, someone trying to conceive on your own terms, or part of a couple exploring options outside clinical settings, these thoughtfully designed kits provide discreet, affordable, and effective alternatives.

• Why does that matter here? Because accessibility and autonomy in family planning are part of the broader picture of supporting every kind of parent — young, old, or anywhere in between.

• And the best part? MakeAMom offers products tailored to unique needs, like low motility sperm or sensitivities, showing us that parenthood doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all blueprint.

Okay, but back to the real heart of this discussion — the stigma facing teen moms.

Mottley’s novel forces us to confront the stories we tell — or don’t tell — about young motherhood. It’s a call to empathy and respect, urging us to replace judgment with support. And it encourages community-building, which is crucial because no parent should feel like they’re walking their path alone.

What can we do?

• Listen: Seek out stories like Mottley’s. Hear young moms' voices directly.
• Educate: Challenge stereotypes whenever you hear them.
• Support: Encourage accessible resources and community programs.
• Empower: Promote autonomy and options in conception and parenting.

At ConceiveWell, we believe every hopeful parent deserves empowerment and compassion — whether navigating the ups and downs of fertility or the challenges of young motherhood. The journey is complicated, yes, but it’s also filled with resilience, love, and possibility.

So, what’s your take?

How do you think society can better support teen moms and parents of all kinds? Have you ever encountered a story like Mottley’s that changed your perspective? Drop your thoughts below — we’re all ears.

For readers interested in learning more about Leila Mottley’s powerful narrative, check out the original NPR piece here: A young novelist takes on misconceptions about teen moms in 'The Girls Who Grew Big'.

And remember, whether you’re exploring modern conception options or simply need a supportive community, resources like MakeAMom’s discreet and innovative kits are a game-changer. Because every family deserves the chance to grow on their own terms.