Ever thought your desire to become a parent is just about biology? Think again.

Recently, I stumbled upon an eye-opening piece titled “On memes, mimetic desire, and why it’s always that deep” by Caitlyn Clark. At first glance, it looks like a deep dive into internet culture—but peel back the layers and you realize it’s really about something far more profound: why we want what we want, how desires are shaped socially and psychologically, and what that means for those of us navigating the winding roads of fertility and parenthood.

What the Heck is Mimetic Desire, Anyway?

French philosopher René Girard coined this term to describe how our wants aren’t born in isolation—they’re contagious. We imitate others’ desires, and suddenly, what seemed like an individual longing becomes part of a shared cultural impulse.

Now, you might be thinking: “Cool theory, but what does this have to do with me trying to start a family?”

Well, think about it. The journey to parenthood is often influenced by stories we see, people around us, social expectations, and the relentless memes flooding our feeds. Seeing friends announce pregnancies triggers a ripple of desire. This isn’t just envy or social pressure—it’s a mimetic cascade making us deeply, sometimes unexpectedly, yearn for the same dream.

How Does This Affect Fertility Journeys?

Trying to conceive—and especially exploring alternative pathways—already comes with its share of emotional rollercoasters. Add mimetic desire to the mix, and the pressure can feel intense, sometimes overwhelming. But here’s a fresh perspective: understanding these desires can help us be kinder to ourselves.

It also highlights the importance of tailored, accessible tools that meet people where they are—both emotionally and practically. This is where innovations like at-home insemination kits come in, breaking down barriers and giving folks more control without the sterile, clinical feel that can sometimes amplify anxiety.

Enter MakeAMom: The Underdog Champion of At-Home Insemination

If you’re looking for discreet, effective, and thoughtfully designed options, companies like MakeAMom are game-changers. MakeAMom offers a line of reusable insemination kits tailored to diverse needs—like the CryoBaby kit for frozen sperm or the BabyMaker kit for those with sensitivities such as vaginismus.

Why does this matter? Because when you understand that your desire to conceive is part of a bigger social and emotional web, having tools that respect your journey’s uniqueness can be empowering.

So, What’s the Takeaway?

  • Your desire to become a parent is deeply human and shaped by many layers of culture and connection. It’s not just “you” wanting this—it’s a beautiful, shared human experience.

  • Acknowledging mimetic desire helps you navigate emotions without guilt or isolation. You’re not alone in feeling what you feel.

  • Having accessible, affordable, and discreet tools like MakeAMom’s reusable kits can make your fertility journey more manageable and personalized. No more feeling boxed in by clinics or pricey one-time-use gadgets.

  • Community stories, memes, and shared experiences are powerful—but remember, you set your own pace and path. Mimetic desire can motivate, not dictate.

Ready to rethink how you approach your fertility journey?

Dive into the fascinating world of desire, culture, and cutting-edge reproductive options. And if you’re curious about taking a confident step at home, explore how MakeAMom’s insemination kits can give you control and comfort.

Because when you understand why you want this, and have the right tools to get there, the path to parenthood feels a little less daunting—and a lot more hopeful.

What’s your story with desire and fertility? Ever noticed how the world around you shapes what you dream of? Let’s chat in the comments below!