Why Simply Encouraging Young Couples to Start Families Isn’t Enough—What They Really Need

Posted on 22 July 2025 by Priya Nair — 4 min

Have you ever felt like society just tells you to ‘start a family’ without really giving you the tools to do it? I’m sure many young adults can relate to that nagging pressure. Recently, I came across a thought-provoking article from The Star titled “Youth need supportive ecosystem to start families, not mere encouragement, says Nancy”, where Malaysia’s Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri points out something crucial: Young people need support systems, not just pep talks. And honestly, this really struck a chord with me as someone who’s passionate about fertility and family planning in today’s fast-changing world.

The Pressure vs. The Reality

Let’s be real—society often simplifies family-building to “just get married and have kids.” But it’s not nearly that simple anymore. Economic hurdles, career priorities, mental health, and fertility challenges mean that young people need a real ecosystem of support. It’s not just about wanting a family; it’s about having the means and resources to make it happen.

Nancy Shukri stresses that policies should be designed around the actual needs of youth rather than simply encouraging the notion of starting families. This means affordable healthcare, flexible work environments, mental health services, and importantly—access to modern fertility options that respect privacy and lifestyle.

What Does a Supportive Ecosystem Look Like?

Imagine if starting a family was met with a community that understood:

The unpredictability of fertility struggles—and offered discreet, accessible support.
Financial and emotional stresses without judgment or stigma.
Flexible solutions that align with today’s diverse family structures and lifestyles.

This is where at-home insemination comes into play as a game-changing option.

At-Home Insemination: Empowering People on Their Terms

One of the most significant ways technology and support systems are evolving is through organizations like MakeAMom. They offer at-home insemination kits that empower individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journey in a stress-free, private, and cost-effective way.

Why is this so impactful?

Privacy and Discretion: All MakeAMom shipments are plain-packaged, giving users peace of mind.
Tailored Solutions: Whether you’re working with frozen sperm, low motility, or have specific sensitivities (like vaginismus), there’s a carefully designed kit for you — CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker.
Cost-Effectiveness: Being reusable, these kits save money over disposable options, lowering financial barriers.
High Success Rates: An average success rate of 67% shows this method is not just convenient but effective.

By providing tools like these, the dream of starting a family becomes more accessible, even when clinical visits aren’t an option or feel intimidating.

It’s About More Than Just Biology

Family-building isn’t only about biology; it's about feeling supported mentally and emotionally. The pressure to start a family can lead to unnecessary stress and mental health struggles. But with a genuine ecosystem—one that marries technology, policy, and community support—it’s possible to create an environment where young people thrive.

So, what can YOU do?

Advocate for Supportive Policies: Encourage decision-makers to create systems that don’t just push ‘marriage and babies’ but provide real resources.
Share Knowledge: Help spread awareness of accessible fertility technologies like those offered by MakeAMom.
Build Communities: Whether online or offline, having a supportive circle makes a huge difference.

Final Thoughts

The message from Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri reminds us that family-building is complex and deeply personal. Encouragement alone isn’t enough; we need a supportive ecosystem that respects the diverse journeys people face today.

As you think about your path or support others on theirs, consider exploring all the modern tools available, like at-home insemination kits, that can make a tangible difference. Curious to learn more about how these solutions work or want to hear stories from people who've taken this route? The MakeAMom website is a fantastic resource with detailed info and heartfelt testimonials.

What’s your take on the gap between encouragement and support in family-building? Have you or someone you know benefited from innovative fertility options? Let’s talk in the comments!