‘We were judged for wanting babies but I want mums on my team.’ That powerful statement from Nottingham Forest netball coach Chelsea Pitman in her revealing interview with the BBC highlights a taboo that’s long persisted in the world of sports: motherhood and pregnancy are often seen as career-ending or inconvenient for athletes and coaches alike.

Chelsea’s honest reflection on her tough fertility journey opens up a much-needed conversation about the realities many women face behind the scenes. But why does pregnancy—even the desire to become a mother—remain a stigma in professional sports? And more importantly, how can the broader wellness and sporting community support those navigating fertility challenges alongside their athletic dreams?

The Hidden Struggle of Fertility in Sports

Fertility struggles are surprisingly common, yet incredibly isolating, especially for women in high-intensity careers like sports. The pressure to perform physically often clashes with the biological realities of fertility. For Chelsea, as for many, the journey to pregnancy wasn’t straightforward. She faced judgment and silence, feeling the weight of outdated beliefs that motherhood might compromise her role or dedication.

This stigma not only impacts mental health but may also prevent open discussions that could lead to better support systems in sports organizations. Fertility, one of the most natural parts of life, becomes wrapped in secrecy and shame.

Why We Should Want Moms on Our Teams

Chelsea’s message is clear: motherhood and professional sports are not mutually exclusive. In fact, having mums on the team brings diverse perspectives, resilience, and motivation. Employers and sporting bodies benefit from creating environments where women don’t feel forced to choose between family and career.

Recognizing this means: - Encouraging open conversations about fertility and family planning. - Offering flexible options like part-time roles or delayed seasons. - Providing access to fertility resources and emotional wellness support.

Supporting Fertility Journeys at Home

For many, the road to conception involves more than just physical fitness. Emotional support, stress management, and accessible medical options are crucial. This is where at-home fertility assistance tools are changing the game.

Companies like MakeAMom offer a range of reusable insemination kits that empower individuals and couples to take control of their conception journey privately and comfortably. Their products are designed with real-world challenges in mind—tailored for low motility sperm, frozen sperm, or specific sensitivities—offering a cost-effective and discreet alternative to clinical interventions.

Imagine the relief of managing fertility at home, on your schedule, without the added stress of frequent clinic visits or invasive procedures. This kind of flexibility could be especially transformative for athletes balancing training and competition with their personal goals of starting or expanding their families.

Shifting the Culture Around Fertility and Career

Breaking the taboo is not just about awareness—it’s about actionable change. Sports organizations, wellness advocates, and fertility communities must collaborate to:

• Normalize fertility discussions in professional settings.
• Celebrate stories of athletes and coaches who have navigated motherhood successfully.
• Provide tools and resources for holistic fertility care—from nutritional advice to stress reduction techniques.

What Can You Do?

If you or someone you know is juggling the demands of career and fertility, remember: you’re not alone, and there are solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether it’s seeking emotional support, exploring at-home insemination options, or simply sharing your story to inspire change, every step contributes to dismantling the stigma.

Chelsea Pitman’s story is a call to action for all of us to create a more inclusive, supportive future where aspiring parents in sports—and beyond—can thrive without judgment.

For more information on gentle, effective ways to support your fertility journey, check out MakeAMom’s resource-rich website, where innovation meets empathy.

For the full inspiring story, read the original BBC article here: ‘We were judged for wanting babies but I want mums on my team’.

Do you have insights or experiences related to fertility and career? Join the conversation below and help us keep breaking down barriers together.