Why We Need Moms on the Team: Breaking the Silence on Fertility in Sports

Posted on 09 July 2025 by Priya Nair — 4 min

Imagine being at the top of your game, leading your team, but facing a silent battle no one talks about—your fertility journey. This is exactly what Chelsea Pitman, Nottingham Forest netball coach, bravely spotlighted when she shared her story about the harsh judgments she encountered for wanting to become a mother while coaching elite sport. Chelsea’s experience shines a much-needed light on a taboo topic: pregnancy and motherhood in athletics.

Why does this matter? Because for too long, women in sports (and many other fields) have felt pressured to choose between their professional dreams and their dreams of motherhood. But why should it be an either-or?

Chelsea Pitman’s courage is a game-changer. She openly discussed the struggle behind the scenes—fertility challenges, invasive medical procedures, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with trying to conceive. Her story, featured in the BBC article ‘We were judged for wanting babies but I want mums on my team’, exposes the uncomfortable truth: the journey to motherhood, especially for women in demanding careers, is often met with judgment instead of support.

So, how can we shift this narrative?

Breaking the Silence: Why Talking About Fertility Matters

The stigma around fertility issues and motherhood in high-performance spaces isn’t just unfair—it’s harmful. It leaves women feeling isolated at a time when community and understanding are most needed.

But here’s the hopeful part: more voices like Chelsea’s are emerging, encouraging open conversation. This is empowering countless women and couples to pursue their family-building goals without fear or shame.

Empowering Your Journey: The Rise of At-Home Fertility Solutions

Fertility journeys can be complex, intimidating, and expensive, especially when navigating traditional clinical routes. That’s where innovations like at-home insemination kits come in—offering privacy, affordability, and control.

Companies like MakeAMom are revolutionizing the way people experience fertility care. Their carefully designed kits cater to different needs—whether it’s low sperm motility or sensitivities—and they provide a reusable, discreet, and cost-effective solution to help individuals and couples take proactive steps towards parenthood in the comfort of their own homes.

Imagine the relief of managing your journey on your terms, supported by tools that respect your privacy and empower your dreams.

Why Support Matters More Than Ever

Whether you’re an athlete, a working professional, or simply someone dreaming of parenthood, the key takeaway from Chelsea’s story is clear: You deserve support, not silence or judgment.

Here’s how we all can be part of this positive change:

Listen and learn: Understand the challenges fertility warriors face.
Speak openly: Normalize conversations about fertility and motherhood.
Offer resources: Share tools and information like at-home kits that provide accessible options.
Build inclusive communities: Foster environments where family and career goals are both celebrated.

Your Next Step: Embrace Your Journey with Confidence

Every fertility journey is unique, and every woman deserves the chance to pursue her dreams—on the field, in the office, or at home—without compromise. Stories like Chelsea Pitman’s remind us that motherhood and professional passion can coexist beautifully.

If you or someone you know is exploring fertility options, consider how at-home solutions might fit your lifestyle. These innovative kits, like those from MakeAMom, empower you to take confident, discreet steps toward parenthood. Check out their Impregnator at-home insemination kit for a thoughtfully designed approach to support your unique fertility needs.

Together, by breaking taboos and embracing supportive technology, we can build a future where every woman feels empowered to have it all.

What do you think? Have you or someone you know faced judgment when balancing motherhood and career? Join the conversation below and share your story!