I Never Expected a Video Game to Teach Me About Resilience and Reproductive Freedom
Have you ever played a video game that made you stop and think about something much bigger than the game itself?
Recently, I stumbled upon an abstract walking simulator called I Don’t Want To Be A Good Woman, which is described as a “museum of resilience” depicting the experience of being a young girl in Iran. Reading about it in this Rock Paper Shotgun article was eye-opening and unexpected. The game dives deep into the harsh realities of sexism and repression in a country where human rights investigators have noted systemic oppression.
What struck me most was the powerful theme of resilience woven through this digital narrative. It made me pause and reflect on resilience in another very personal context—fertility and reproductive freedom.
Why does resilience matter so much in fertility journeys?
For many individuals and couples trying to conceive—whether through natural means, assisted reproductive technologies, or at-home methods—the mental and emotional challenges can feel overwhelming. There are moments of hope, frustration, joy, and sometimes heartbreak. But the strength to keep going, to keep trying, to find new paths forward? That’s resilience.
This intersection of resilience against systemic repression and resilience through personal fertility struggles feels incredibly poignant right now. Because the fight for reproductive freedom and autonomy isn’t just happening in countries with oppressive regimes. Even here, access to fertility treatments, affordable options, and privacy in reproductive choices can be a battle.
That’s why innovations in fertility technology, especially accessible at-home options, are so important. For example, companies like MakeAMom are changing the game by offering at-home insemination kits tailored to a variety of needs—from those using frozen sperm to people dealing with conditions like vaginismus. These kits allow individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journeys in discreet, affordable, and convenient ways.
Imagine the power of having this kind of autonomy in a world where reproductive decisions can feel out of your hands.
MakeAMom’s kits are reusable, cost-effective, and discreetly shipped without any identifying information, which helps protect privacy—a crucial factor for many. Their reported average success rate of 67% is promising and provides hope for those who may feel discouraged by traditional routes.
But beyond the technology and success rates, there’s an emotional aspect that’s just as vital. The resilience to keep trying, the courage to learn about your options, and the strength to pursue parenthood on your own terms.
So, what can we learn from a game about repression in Iran when it comes to our own fertility journeys?
- Resilience is a shared human experience. Whether fighting systemic injustice or personal fertility struggles, it’s the unyielding spirit that keeps us moving forward.
- Empowerment comes from knowledge and autonomy. Access to tools and information can transform overwhelming journeys into manageable, hopeful ones.
- Solidarity matters. Recognizing the challenges others face globally reminds us to advocate for reproductive rights and support one another locally.
If you’re navigating your own path to parenthood and seeking options that give you control and dignity, it might be worth exploring the many at-home fertility aids and resources now available. The landscape is changing, and with that change comes hope and empowerment.
And if you’re curious about the stories that shape our understanding of resilience and freedom, I highly recommend checking out the article on I Don’t Want To Be A Good Woman and the game itself. Sometimes, inspiration comes from the most unexpected places.
What’s your story of resilience? How have you found strength in your fertility journey? I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below. Let’s keep this conversation going—because every story matters.
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This post is brought to you in partnership with MakeAMom, pioneers of accessible and empowering at-home insemination options.