Let’s be real: Pregnancy isn’t all glowing selfies and cute bump pics.
Scrolling through social media, you’d think everyone breezes through pregnancy looking radiant and feeling magical. But then a celebrity like Olivia Culpo gets real — and suddenly, you realize you’re not alone in the messiness. If you missed it, Olivia just dropped a painfully honest update about her "growing" baby bump, and honestly? It’s the kind of raw truth we need in 2025 (read her post here).
So, why does this matter to those of us dreaming, trying, or in the thick of the journey to parenthood—especially at home? Let’s dig into what Olivia’s candor means for all of us and how it can actually make your conception journey kinder, easier, and a LOT less lonely.
The Side of Pregnancy No One Talks About
Olivia Culpo, a public figure with millions of eyes on her, could totally play it safe. But instead, she’s talking about the aches, the growing pains, and the complicated emotions that come with pregnancy. She’s not alone in this, either—a 2025 survey by the National Women’s Health Resource Center revealed that over 68% of pregnant people feel pressured to hide the tough side of their experiences.
Why is that?
- We’re taught to “stay positive.”
- Social media filters out the messier moments.
- Fear of judgment (especially if you used fertility treatments or home insemination).
But here’s the kicker: It’s totally normal to have days where you just don’t feel great. Whether you’re feeling physical discomfort, emotional overload, or even second-guessing your decisions, YOU’RE NOT BROKEN. You’re just human.
Trying to Conceive at Home? Here’s Why Real Talk Matters
Raise your hand if you’ve ever googled “is it normal to feel THIS tired after insemination?” or “what’s the deal with mood swings during the two-week wait?”
🤚 (If you didn’t just raise your hand, you’re lying!)
Anyone who’s attempted conception at home knows it’s a wild ride. There’s excitement, self-doubt, and a rollercoaster of hope versus reality.
- What if my kit doesn’t work?
- Why is my partner acting so calm (while I’m basically a mess)?
- What if my body just doesn’t cooperate this month?
The truth: Even with the right tools and a positive attitude, conception can be unpredictable. That’s why honesty—the kind Olivia Culpo just shared—is so important. It makes you feel SEEN.
Bumps, Bruises, and Beautiful Chaos: How to Embrace the Journey
Here’s what I wish someone had told me earlier: It’s okay if your experience isn’t Instagram-perfect. The tears are real. So are the laughs. And every time you see a post from someone like Olivia being vulnerable, it cracks open a little more space for the rest of us to show up as our real selves.
Try these reality-tested reminders when things get tough:
- Celebrate every tiny win. Ovulation tests, new kits, even just showing up for yourself today.
- Reach out. Online forums, group chats, or even a text to a fellow TTC (Trying To Conceive) friend can be a lifeline.
- Educate, don’t shame. Everyone’s path, body, and timeline is wildly different.
- Don’t compare. What helped that Instagram influencer might be different from what works for you (and that’s okay!).
And hey, your journey is worthy of support—especially when you’re trying at home. That’s why having trusted resources matters. Companies like MakeAMom’s support center aren’t just pushing products; they’re building community, demystifying the process, and normalizing EVERY step of the journey. (I love that their kits work for a range of needs, from low motility to sensitivities, and—major bonus—arrive in discreet packaging.)
The Bottom Line: You’re Not Alone (and That’s the Real Secret)
When a celebrity like Olivia Culpo puts her struggles out there, it’s not just gossip—it’s validation. It’s proof that no one does this perfectly, and you don’t have to, either.
So, next time you’re staring down a negative test or feeling like your body’s betraying you, remember that there’s no "right" way to do this.
Every emotion is valid. Every step counts. Every bump—literal or metaphorical—is part of your story.
Share your real moments. Keep it honest with your friends (and yourself). And if you need support, look for communities, tools, and stories that normalize the messy parts—because that’s where you’ll find your strength.
What’s the most unexpected part of your own conception or pregnancy journey? Drop your story in the comments—let’s make it safe to share the real stuff!