Think you know teen moms? Think again.

When you hear the phrase “teen pregnancy,” what pops into your mind? Stereotypes? Misconceptions? Well, buckle up, because Leila Mottley’s latest novel, The Girls Who Grew Big, is here to shake things up and open your eyes to the real journey of young mothers in a small Florida town.

Leila Mottley isn’t just an author; she’s a doula—a guide, a supporter, a warrior standing with women through the most vulnerable and transformative times of their lives. So, it’s no surprise her novel isn’t just storytelling; it’s a heartfelt extension of her real-life work.

But what makes this novel so groundbreaking?

It dispels the cloud of judgment and falsehoods that often hover over teen moms. Instead of portraying them as reckless or doomed, Mottley reveals raw, flawed, and fiercely hopeful young women navigating pregnancy, motherhood, and the messy, beautiful complexity of life.

Why does this matter to you?

Because whether you’re on your own path to parenthood, supporting a loved one, or just curious about the nuanced realities of motherhood, stories like this challenge us to confront our biases and embrace a more compassionate, inclusive view.

Here’s the thing: the journey to becoming a mom isn’t one-size-fits-all. And for young moms—especially in underserved communities—the hurdles often include financial strain, health challenges, and limited support.

Which brings us to a little secret in the world of fertility and parenthood: accessibility and agency.

Enter: At-home insemination kits — a game changer

Organizations like MakeAMom are innovating ways to empower individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journeys—right from their living rooms. Their at-home kits, like the CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker, cater to unique needs—from low motility sperm to users with specific sensitivities—making pregnancy a less clinical, more personal experience.

Why does this matter for young or unconventional mothers? Because it offers an affordable, discreet, and hopeful option when traditional routes might feel out of reach or intimidating.

How do these two narratives connect?

• Real stories fuel understanding. Mottley’s novel humanizes the struggles and strength of teen moms.
• Innovative tools fuel empowerment. Solutions like MakeAMom’s kits provide accessible paths to parenthood.

Together, they paint a future where judgment gives way to empathy, and barriers give way to possibilities.

What can we learn from Leila Mottley's work?

• Motherhood is multifaceted: It’s messy, joyous, painful, and resilient.
• Support is crucial: From doulas to community programs to innovative fertility tools.
• Stories matter: They shape perceptions, influence policies, and inspire hope.

If you’d like to dive deeper into this compelling narrative, NPR’s article A young novelist takes on misconceptions about teen moms in ‘The Girls Who Grew Big’ is a stellar place to start.

Final thoughts

So, are you ready to challenge what you think you know about teen pregnancy and motherhood? To celebrate the fierce hope and resilience of young women building families against the odds? And to maybe rethink the tools and stories we keep close as we navigate the wild ride that is parenthood?

This isn’t just a novel or a fertility kit—it’s a call to broaden our lens and deepen our empathy.

What’s your take? Have you encountered stories or experiences that shifted your perspective on motherhood? Drop a comment and let’s get real about the journeys, struggles, and triumphs that make us human.

Remember, whether it’s through heartfelt stories or innovative solutions, every step forward is a victory for families everywhere.