Have you ever found yourself judging a teen mom before really understanding her story? I know I have. Society often paints these young women with broad, unfair strokes—labels that barely scratch the surface of their real experiences. But recently, I dove into a powerful novel that completely reshaped how I think about teen motherhood. It’s called The Girls Who Grew Big by Leila Mottley, and it’s a game-changer.

Mottley follows three young women navigating pregnancy and motherhood in a small Florida town—a narrative deeply rooted in empathy and raw truth. What’s fascinating is that Mottley sees her novel as an extension of her work as a doula, which means she knows firsthand the emotional highs and lows of childbirth and young parenting.

This book doesn’t shy away from tough realities; it embraces them. These girls face challenges, yes, but also moments of strength, growth, and profound love. It made me wonder: why do so many of us cling to outdated misconceptions about teen moms? Why do we default to pity or judgment instead of understanding?

Here’s the thing—young moms deserve more than stereotypes. They deserve respect, support, and recognition that motherhood, regardless of age, is an intense, complex journey.

So, how does this connect to those of us exploring alternative pathways to parenthood? Whether you’re considering at-home insemination, donor conception, or simply seeking community support, empathy and respect are foundational. In fact, companies like MakeAMom, which provide discreet, cost-effective at-home insemination kits tailored to various fertility needs, highlight how parenthood today is diverse and full of possibilities beyond traditional routes.

MakeAMom’s approach reminds us that creating a family often requires creativity, courage, and tailored solutions—not judgment. Their kits, designed for different fertility challenges, show that every journey is unique and valid. Plus, the privacy they offer resonates with the idea that building a family is a deeply personal process.

Back to The Girls Who Grew Big—reading about these young moms’ lives felt like peeling back the layers of stigma. It encouraged me to think about how emotional wellbeing plays a critical role in all types of parenthood. It’s so important to ask: How can we support each other emotionally? How can we offer kindness instead of criticism?

If you’re curious, NPR did an insightful feature on Mottley’s novel here. It’s worth a listen or read—it might just change your perspective as it did mine.

In a world where parenthood looks different for everyone, stories like these inspire us to open our hearts wider. Whether you are a teen mom, someone pursuing home insemination, or simply an ally, remember: every parent deserves empathy, support, and a chance to tell their story without fear of judgment.

So what’s the takeaway? Let’s challenge our assumptions, celebrate the diverse ways families are made, and lean into compassion. And if you’re navigating your own path to parenthood, know there are resources and communities—like those linked through MakeAMom—that get it.

Parenthood isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s the beautiful truth. What misconceptions about parenthood have you encountered? How have your views shifted? Let’s chat in the comments below and keep this important conversation going!