Why We Need More Moms in the Game: Breaking the Silence on Fertility in Sport

Imagine being told your desire to become a mother could make you less committed or even unwelcome in your own profession. For Nottingham Forest netball coach Chelsea Pitman, this wasn’t just an imagined scenario — it was her reality. In a heartfelt interview shared by the BBC titled 'We were judged for wanting babies but I want mums on my team', Pitman recalls her difficult fertility journey and the stigma she faced in the world of competitive sport. Her story highlights a widely overlooked truth: pregnancy and motherhood should never be taboo topics, especially in professions demanding physical and emotional strength like sports coaching. But why is this stigma so pervasive, and how can we change the narrative to better support women navigating fertility challenges while pursuing their passions?

The Silent Struggle: Fertility and Professional Pressures

For many women, balancing career aspirations with the desire to start a family feels like walking a tightrope. In highly competitive fields, such as sports coaching or athletics, this balancing act is even more precarious. Chelsea Pitman’s experience reveals the tough reality many face — being judged or sidelined for prioritizing motherhood. Fertility journeys are often deeply personal and sometimes painful, a process that can demand time, emotional energy, and privacy. Yet when these journeys intersect with professional life, the pressure to keep silent or “push through” intensifies.

So, how do individuals like Pitman find strength and success amid such adversity? The answer lies in openness, education, and innovative solutions that empower hopeful parents to pursue fertility goals without sacrificing their careers or well-being.

Breaking the Taboo: Why Talking About Fertility Matters

Discussing fertility challenges openly in workplaces — especially those traditionally dominated by men or that prize physical stamina — helps reduce stigma and normalizes the experience for all. When women like Chelsea step forward, they illuminate the path for others, showing that fertility struggles don’t diminish professional skill or dedication.

Additionally, awareness encourages employers to be more supportive, offering flexible work arrangements or resources to accommodate fertility treatments and family planning. This shift in culture is essential for fostering inclusivity and retaining talented individuals who might otherwise leave their professions out of frustration or necessity.

Innovative Approaches to Supporting Fertility Journeys at Home

One game-changing development in fertility support is the rise of at-home insemination kits. These tools provide a discreet, empowering, and cost-effective alternative to traditional clinical procedures. Companies like MakeAMom have developed reusable insemination kits tailored to various fertility needs — for example, the CryoBaby kit for frozen sperm, the Impregnator kit for low motility sperm, and the BabyMaker kit designed for women with sensitivities like vaginismus.

With an average success rate of 67%, these kits allow individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journeys in the comfort and privacy of their own homes. For busy professionals balancing demanding careers, this kind of flexibility can be a true game changer. Plus, discreet packaging ensures confidentiality, which is crucial for those navigating sensitive medical journeys.

The Mental and Emotional Toll — And How to Cope

Fertility struggles can be emotionally taxing, especially when compounded by workplace judgments or societal expectations. Coaches and athletes like Chelsea Pitman highlight the importance of mental wellness as a vital part of this journey.

Here are a few tips to support your mental health while TTC (trying to conceive):

Build a support network: Connect with others who understand your experience through online forums or local support groups.
Practice self-care: Incorporate mindfulness, exercise, or hobbies to reduce stress.
Seek professional help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to counselors or therapists who specialize in fertility-related emotional health.
Communicate: Be open with your employer or team about your needs when comfortable — transparency fosters understanding.

Moving Forward: Creating Teams that Embrace Motherhood and Fertility Journeys

Chelsea Pitman’s call for more mums on her team isn’t just a plea for inclusivity — it’s a powerful reminder that motherhood enriches professional environments. Women who overcome fertility challenges bring resilience, empathy, and unique insights that can strengthen teams in sports and beyond.

The path to change begins with awareness and compassionate support systems. Businesses and sports organizations can:

Develop inclusive policies that accommodate fertility treatments and parental leave.
Encourage open conversations to destigmatize fertility struggles.
Provide access to resources like at-home fertility kits and mental wellness programs.

By fostering environments where women don’t have to choose between career and family, we unlock untapped potential and promote a culture of understanding and empowerment.

Your Fertility Journey Matters — Take Charge Today

Whether you’re actively trying to conceive, supporting a loved one, or advocating for workplace change, Chelsea Pitman’s story is a beacon of hope and determination. Embracing innovation, like the options offered by companies such as MakeAMom, coupled with honest dialogue about fertility, can transform the way we approach parenthood in demanding careers.

What does your ideal support system look like? Have you encountered similar challenges in your career? Share your thoughts and stories with us — because every voice helps break the silence and build stronger, more inclusive communities.

Together, let’s champion a future where motherhood and professional passion go hand in hand.