Why Motherhood Should Be Celebrated, Not Judged: A Coach’s Powerful Fertility Journey

Imagine being judged not for your skills or your dedication, but for wanting something as natural and beautiful as motherhood. That’s the raw reality Chelsea Pitman, Nottingham Forest netball coach, faced as she navigated her tough fertility journey while juggling a highly demanding sporting career. In her own candid words, shared with the BBC article ‘We were judged for wanting babies but I want mums on my team’, Chelsea challenges the outdated stigma around pregnancy and motherhood in professional sports—and beyond.

Why does society still struggle to support women who want to combine ambitious careers with having children? This question opens a whole conversation about empathy, flexibility, and reframing what success looks like for women, especially in fields traditionally dominated by performance and endurance.

Chelsea’s story is a beacon of hope and courage. She openly recalls not only the emotional and physical challenges of her fertility treatment but also the judgment she faced simply for expressing her desire to become a mother. It’s a reminder that behind every athlete, professional, or passionate individual is a deeply personal journey—one that deserves respect and support.

So, what can we learn from Chelsea’s experience?

• Motherhood is not a barrier but a strength: Having children does not diminish a woman’s professional capabilities; in many cases, it enriches them. It teaches resilience, multitasking, and compassion.
• Removing stigma starts with conversations: Talking openly about fertility struggles and pregnancy in demanding environments empowers others to share their stories and seek support.
• Innovative solutions make motherhood more accessible: For those facing fertility challenges, accessible options like at-home insemination kits — such as those offered by organizations like MakeAMom — provide a discreet, cost-effective way to pursue parenthood without the stress and expense of clinical settings.

Here’s why this matters so much today. The zeitgeist of 2025 is calling for inclusivity, mental wellness, and breaking down taboos. Chelsea’s story aligns perfectly with this movement. She’s not just asking for tolerance but for maternity to be a celebrated part of team dynamics and workplace culture.

If you or someone you love is on this journey, you’re not alone. Fertility struggles and motherhood dreams deserve to be met with kindness and support—not judgment. Whether it’s athletes, professionals, or couples exploring different paths to conception, sharing experiences fuels a powerful sense of community.

Moreover, companies like MakeAMom are revolutionizing the path to parenthood. Their reusable insemination kits, tailored to specific sensitivities and challenges, empower individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journey from the comfort and privacy of home. This is a game-changer for anyone who wants to preserve dignity and affordability while aspiring to become parents.

So, what’s the take-home message? Don’t let societal bias stop you from pursuing your dreams—whether that’s excelling in your career or expanding your family. Help create a world where coaches like Chelsea are not exceptions but the norm: where mums are valued team members and fertility journeys are embraced with empathy.

Let’s keep this conversation alive. How do you think workplaces and sports teams can better support those balancing motherhood and careers? Share your thoughts and stories below—because every voice matters.

Remember, the path to parenthood can be uniquely yours, and with the right support and resources, anything is possible. For those seeking more information on sensitive and accessible fertility solutions, MakeAMom’s resources are a fantastic place to start.

Together, we can rewrite the narrative around motherhood and fertility, making it one of empowerment, acceptance, and hope.