Why Are So Many People Struggling to Have the Kids They Want? The Shocking Truth Behind the Global Fertility Decline

Posted on 12 July 2025 by Elena Moreno — 4 min

Nearly one in five adults worldwide believe they won’t be able to have the number of children they want. Sounds shocking, right? Yet, this is exactly what recent research uncovered from 14 countries, revealing a global concern that touches millions of hopeful parents' dreams. So, what's driving this surprising trend, and more importantly, what can be done about it?

If you’re wondering why so many people are having fewer kids than they desire — despite wanting more — you’re not alone. This phenomenon was recently explored in depth by TIME magazine’s revealing article “Why People Around the World Are Having Fewer Kids, Even If They Want Them”, which sheds light on the complex social, economic, and biological factors behind fertility decline.

The Fertility Challenge: More Than Just a Choice

At first glance, it might seem like family size is simply a matter of personal preference or lifestyle decisions. But the data tells a deeper story. From economic pressures and lifestyle changes to growing fertility challenges and biological factors, many barriers are silently stacking up against the goal of family expansion.

Economic & Social Pressures: The cost of raising children continues to soar worldwide, pushing many couples and individuals to delay or limit family size.
Biological and Medical Factors: Age-related fertility decline, unexplained infertility, and rising rates of conditions like low sperm motility and ovulatory disorders significantly impact the ability to conceive naturally.
Cultural Shifts: Changes in priorities, urbanization, and work-life balance reshape reproductive choices.

But here's where it gets interesting: despite these headwinds, many are still determined to become parents — and this has fueled an urgent demand for accessible, effective fertility solutions.

The Rise of At-Home Fertility Technologies

With clinic visits being expensive, time-consuming, and sometimes intimidating, many hopeful parents are turning to innovative at-home options to take control of their fertility journey. This is where companies like MakeAMom stand out by offering tailored at-home insemination kits designed to address diverse fertility challenges.

MakeAMom’s line of kits — including the CryoBaby for frozen or low-volume sperm, the Impregnator for low motility sperm, and the BabyMaker tailored for users with sensitivities such as vaginismus — provide a discreet, cost-effective, and reusable alternative to traditional clinical procedures. Their reported average success rate of 67% among users highlights how technology is helping to bridge the gap between desire and reality.

These solutions empower individuals and couples to overcome common barriers to conception in a comfortable home environment, aligning perfectly with the needs of today’s fertility landscape.

Why At-Home Kits Are Gaining Traction Now

Several trends converge to make at-home fertility kits a game-changer right now:

Privacy and Convenience: Plain packaging and the ability to use kits on your own schedule reduces stigma and stress.
Cost-Effectiveness: Reusable kits like those from MakeAMom dramatically lower costs compared to repeated clinical inseminations.
Tailored Solutions: Specialized kits accommodate specific fertility hurdles, directly addressing biological limitations.

This means that for many, the dream of expanding their family becomes more attainable — even as global fertility rates decline.

What Can You Do If You’re Facing Fertility Challenges?

If you find yourself worried about your ability to have the number of children you want, know that you’re far from alone, and there are proactive steps you can take:

Educate Yourself: Understanding your unique fertility situation helps in making informed decisions.
Explore At-Home Options: Innovations like MakeAMom’s kits bring professional-grade fertility assistance right to your doorstep.
Consult Professionals: Use at-home kits as part of a comprehensive approach that includes medical advice.

Taking control is the first step to overcoming fertility barriers.

Final Thoughts: Turning Data Into Hope

The global fertility decline may seem like a daunting statistic, but behind the numbers are real people seeking real solutions. The rising trend of at-home fertility technologies represents a beacon of hope, democratizing access to fertility care and helping individuals and couples realize their dreams of parenthood.

If you want to learn more about how innovative at-home insemination kits are making a difference, check out how MakeAMom’s home insemination systems are designed to meet various fertility needs with care, convenience, and efficacy.

What do you think about the future of fertility in a world facing these unprecedented challenges? Have you or someone you know tried at-home fertility solutions? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below — let’s keep this important conversation going!