How Being Kind to Myself During Pregnancy Changed My Fertility Journey Forever
Have you ever felt the weight of expectations to 'bounce back' immediately after pregnancy? I sure have. And honestly, it’s exhausting. But what if I told you that being kind to yourself during this critical time could not only make getting fit easier but also impact your fertility journey in surprising ways?
Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer, shared her candid story about gaining over 50 pounds during pregnancy and how embracing a beginner’s mindset — instead of succumbing to societal pressure to “bounce back” — changed everything for her. You can read her full story here.
Reading Emily’s story got me thinking about how we often treat fertility and pregnancy like a race with a strict finish line. We push ourselves hard to get “back” to pre-pregnancy bodies or to conceive quickly, often overlooking something fundamental: self-compassion.
Why is kindness so powerful when it comes to fertility?
Stress Reduction: Fertility struggles are emotionally taxing. Stress alone can impact hormonal balance and ovulation. Being gentle with yourself helps lower stress levels, creating a more welcoming environment for conception.
Mental Health Boost: Postpartum and fertility journeys are filled with ups and downs. Kindness nurtures positive mental health, helping combat anxiety and depression that often go hand-in-hand with these experiences.
Better Lifestyle Choices: When you stop beating yourself up, you’re more likely to make healthier choices—not because you “have to,” but because you want to. This shift can enhance your overall fertility health.
But how do you start being kinder to yourself, especially when the world around you is buzzing with expectations?
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, tired, or sad. Validating your emotions is a first step toward healing.
- Set Realistic Goals: Whether it’s fitness, diet, or fertility treatments, manageable goals prevent burnout and keep motivation alive.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Each ovulation cycle, each healthy meal, every moment of rest counts. Recognize and appreciate these moments.
Another layer to this discussion is the accessibility of home fertility solutions. For many, clinical fertility treatments are costly, intimidating, or simply inconvenient. This is where innovative companies like MakeAMom come into play. They offer at-home insemination kits designed to empower individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journey in the comfort and privacy of their own homes.
What’s fantastic about MakeAMom’s approach is the sensitivity and customization they bring to the process:
- Their CryoBaby kit works perfectly for those using low-volume or frozen sperm.
- The Impregnator kit is tailored for low motility sperm.
- And the BabyMaker kit supports users dealing with conditions like vaginismus or sensitivities.
Plus, their reusable kits reduce costs and environmental impact — which means less pressure on you financially and practically. And the discreet packaging? A small but powerful nod to respect your privacy and emotional wellbeing.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Can home insemination really work?”
According to MakeAMom, their average success rate among clients is an impressive 67%. That’s a game-changer for many on this journey, offering hope without added stress.
So what’s the takeaway here?
Embracing kindness towards yourself during pregnancy and fertility struggles isn’t just about emotional wellbeing — it can positively influence your physical journey too. Pairing that mindset with accessible, thoughtful solutions like MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits creates a powerful, holistic approach to parenthood.
If you’re navigating this path, remember: it’s your journey. There’s no rush, no “should” or “must.” Be patient, be gentle, and explore options that feel right for you.
What’s one way you’ve practiced kindness towards yourself during your fertility or postpartum journey? Share your stories and tips below — let’s support each other!
For more details on at-home fertility options, check out MakeAMom’s resources and products.