Think you know what it’s like to be a teen mom? Think again.

I recently stumbled upon an NPR article about Leila Mottley’s powerful new novel, The Girls Who Grew Big. It follows three young women in a small Florida town, navigating the beautiful yet complex journey of pregnancy and motherhood. What struck me the most wasn’t just their resilience or struggles—it was how Mottley, who also works as a doula, challenges the stereotypes society so often slaps on teen moms.

Have you ever noticed how mainstream media tends to paint teen moms with a broad, often negative brush? It’s like their stories are crushed into clichés — the “problematic teen,” the “lost opportunities,” or worse, the “burden.” But Mottley’s narrative is different. It’s raw, honest, and full of nuance. It reminds me that every journey to parenthood deserves empathy and understanding, no matter the age or circumstances.

So, why does this matter to those of us exploring parenthood in 2025?

Because parenthood — in all its forms — is evolving. Whether you're a teen mom defying odds or a couple trying to conceive through assisted means, stories like Mottley’s remind us to hold space for diversity. And here’s where modern fertility tech, like at-home insemination kits, enters the conversation in a big way.

You might be wondering: how do at-home insemination kits fit into this picture? Well, imagine the freedom of starting or expanding your family on your own terms, in your own safe space, without the pressure and cost of clinical settings. Companies like MakeAMom are pioneering these accessible, reusable kits designed for various needs—whether it’s low motility sperm, sensitivities like vaginismus, or frozen samples. They even report an impressive average 67% success rate, which is fantastic news for hopeful parents.

Here’s the kicker: these kits are packaged discreetly, respecting your privacy, and come with easy-to-follow information that empowers you on your fertility journey. This kind of innovation is particularly game-changing for people who might not feel comfortable or able to access traditional fertility clinics — including young moms, single parents, LGBTQ+ couples, and those facing unique fertility challenges.

And yes, the journey to parenthood can be messy and unpredictable. But it’s also filled with moments of joy, hope, and strength, much like the young women in The Girls Who Grew Big.

So, what can we learn from Mottley’s work combined with today’s fertility advances?

• Compassion and representation matter. Understanding the real-life stories behind teen motherhood and diverse family-building paths helps break down stigma.
• Empowerment through choice. Whether you’re 16 or 36, the ability to control how and when you conceive can drastically change the experience.
• Innovation meets accessibility. At-home insemination kits like those offered by MakeAMom show that parenthood isn’t confined to clinics or traditional methods anymore.

If you or someone you know is exploring your fertility options, I encourage you to check out this thoughtful guide on home insemination kits that breaks down the benefits and what you need to know.

And if you’re curious about the deeper societal conversations around teen moms and motherhood, the NPR piece on Mottley’s novel is a must-read: A young novelist takes on misconceptions about teen moms in 'The Girls Who Grew Big'.

At the end of the day, whether you’re a teen mom, a hopeful parent using cutting-edge fertility tools, or simply someone who wants to support people on the path to parenthood, the message is clear: every story matters, and every family journey is valid.

What’s your take? Have you or someone you know used at-home insemination kits? Or maybe you’ve experienced the triumphs and trials of teen motherhood firsthand? Share your thoughts below — let’s keep this important conversation going.