Why We Need More Mums on the Team: Breaking the Silence Around Fertility in Sports
Have you ever felt judged for your family-building dreams? If you’ve ever tried to start a family, particularly in high-demand environments like professional sports, you might resonate deeply with Chelsea Pitman’s story. Recently, she opened up in a candid interview titled 'We were judged for wanting babies but I want mums on my team', revealing the tough road she traveled through fertility challenges while coaching at Nottingham Forest netball.
Chelsea’s experience is far from unique, but what makes her voice so powerful is how she challenges the stigma around pregnancy and motherhood in sports. She points out a harsh truth: pregnancy and fertility struggles are often taboo topics, especially for women balancing demanding careers.
The Silent Struggle Many Don’t See
In the competitive world of sports, athletes and coaches alike face immense pressures — physical, mental, and emotional. Adding fertility struggles to that mix can feel isolating, even shameful at times. Chelsea’s story highlights just how common this is, and why we need to create more open conversations so no one feels alone.
What struck me most about her message was the call for inclusivity: she wants to see more mums on the team, not fewer. Why? Because motherhood doesn’t diminish a woman’s value or contribution; if anything, it adds layers of strength, empathy, and resilience.
Why Openness Matters More Than Ever
Talking openly about fertility can be scary. Society often expects women to keep family-building plans private, especially if they face struggles like infertility or require alternative methods to conceive. Yet this silence only fuels stigma and misinformation.
Today, with tools like at-home insemination kits becoming more accessible and discreet, individuals and couples have more options than ever to take control of their journey toward parenthood. For example, organizations like MakeAMom offer reusable insemination kits tailored to different needs — from low motility sperm to sensitivities like vaginismus — empowering people to try conceiving in the comfort of their homes. Their average success rate of 67% reflects hope for many who might otherwise feel limited by traditional clinical routes.
The Emotional Rollercoaster and Finding Strength
Chelsea’s interview isn’t just about the physical challenges of fertility; it’s about the emotional toll. The waiting, the uncertainty, the moments of heartbreak — these are all part of the experience. If you’re navigating this path, remember you’re not alone, and it’s okay to seek support.
Here are a few ways to survive and thrive emotionally while on your path:
- Find Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who listen without judgment.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward, no matter how tiny, is progress.
- Embrace Flexibility: Your journey won’t be linear, and that’s okay.
- Speak Up: Sharing your story might help someone else feel less isolated.
How Can Communities and Workplaces Do Better?
Chelsea’s call to action isn’t just for sports teams; it’s for workplaces everywhere. How can organizations support people building families?
- Create Safe Spaces: Encourage honest conversations about fertility and parenthood.
- Offer Flexible Policies: Accommodate treatments and pregnancy needs without penalty.
- Normalize Parenthood: Celebrate and support parents, regardless of their path to family.
The Power of Stories Like Chelsea’s
Reading about Chelsea Pitman’s journey was a reminder that our struggles don’t define us, but sharing them can redefine the culture around us. The more we spotlight real experiences, especially in environments where silence prevails, the closer we get to acceptance and understanding.
If you’re considering at-home insemination or other family-building options, resources like MakeAMom provide discreet, affordable, and tailored solutions to help you take that next step when you’re ready.
So here’s my question for you: What’s one thing about your fertility or motherhood journey that you wish more people understood? Let’s start a conversation — because every voice matters on this path to building families.
For anyone needing encouragement or information, I highly recommend checking out Chelsea’s full interview here. And if you’re exploring options beyond traditional fertility clinics, learn more about accessible, at-home choices at MakeAMom.
You’re stronger than you know— and your story might just be the light someone else needs today.