Why We Need More Moms On The Team: Breaking Fertility Taboos in Sports and Beyond

‘We were judged for wanting babies but I want mums on my team.’ That powerful statement comes from Chelsea Pitman, Nottingham Forest’s netball coach, who recently opened up about her challenging fertility journey and the broader issue of motherhood being a taboo topic in sports. Her story isn’t just about one athlete's fight to become a mother; it’s an inspiring call to action for society to rethink how we view fertility, pregnancy, and parenthood—especially in traditionally high-performance environments.

If you’ve ever felt that talking openly about your desire to become a parent might lead to judgment or gatekeeping, you’re not alone. Chelsea’s experience reflects a hidden struggle many face - balancing professional ambitions with the deeply personal journey of fertility and family planning. But why should pregnancy be a taboo in sports, or anywhere else for that matter? This question lies at the heart of a shifting cultural conversation that is finally gaining momentum.

The Hidden Battles Behind the Spotlight

Chelsea Pitman’s journey, detailed in this heartfelt BBC article, shows us the emotional toll fertility challenges can take. From invasive treatments to the fear of being judged or sidelined, many women athletes carry these burdens quietly. Yet, their stories remind us that motherhood and career aren’t mutually exclusive—they can coexist with the right support and understanding.

This discussion isn’t limited to elite sports. Anyone navigating the path to parenthood faces systemic obstacles and social stigmas, especially when it involves fertility struggles. The good news? Technology is advancing rapidly to empower individuals and couples in unprecedented ways.

At-Home Fertility Tech: Empowerment Meets Accessibility

Imagine having more control over your fertility journey from the comfort and privacy of your home. That’s exactly what companies like MakeAMom are achieving. Specializing in at-home insemination kits, MakeAMom offers tools like CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker designed to cater to diverse fertility needs—from low sperm motility to sensitivities like vaginismus.

The beauty of these kits lies in their accessibility and privacy. Packaged discreetly, reusable, and boasting an impressive 67% success rate, they provide an affordable and empowering alternative to clinical options. For women like Chelsea, or anyone embarking on a fertility journey, this tech can be a game-changer.

Why Breaking the Stigma Matters

Discussing fertility openly transforms isolation into community. When women in sports, workplaces, or social settings share their stories, they pave the way for others to feel seen and supported. This isn’t just about fairness or inclusion—it’s about fundamentally reimagining environments to be more humane and nurturing.

Here’s what we can all take from Chelsea’s story:

• Fertility struggles are common but often invisible. Raising awareness can reduce feelings of shame.
• Motherhood doesn’t have to halt ambition. Policies and attitudes need to reflect this truth.
• Innovative tools can provide greater control and privacy. At-home fertility tech is democratizing parenthood.

What Can You Do? Start the Conversation.

Whether you’re an athlete, a professional, or simply someone passionate about supporting families, it’s time to talk openly about fertility and motherhood. Share stories, challenge outdated stereotypes, and advocate for solutions that make family-building accessible and stigma-free.

Ready to learn more about how technology is revolutionizing the fertility journey? Explore how at-home insemination kits offer a private, empowering option for many hopeful parents by visiting MakeAMom’s resource-rich website.

Chelsea Pitman’s words remind us that wanting to grow a family is never something to hide or be judged for. Instead, it should be celebrated and supported. So, what’s stopping us from having more moms on our teams—in sports, in business, and in life?

Join the conversation below. Have you, or someone you know, faced similar challenges? How did you overcome the barriers? Let’s create a community where fertility is no longer a taboo, but a shared journey of hope and resilience.

Inspired by Chelsea Pitman’s courageous openness in ‘We were judged for wanting babies but I want mums on my team’.