Why We Need More Moms on the Field: Breaking the Silence on Fertility and Motherhood in Sports

Posted on 21 July 2025 by Marcus Williams — 4 min

Have you ever felt judged for wanting something deeply personal, like becoming a parent, especially when your life is all about performance and competition?

That’s exactly the experience Nottingham Forest netball coach Chelsea Pitman shared in a heartfelt article by the BBC that’s been resonating with so many of us. Chelsea’s story isn’t just about her fertility journey; it’s about how pregnancy and motherhood are still taboo topics in sports — places where you’d think health and life milestones would be celebrated, not shamed.

So why is this silence so loud?

Athletes, especially women, are often expected to prioritize their sport above all else. The idea of starting a family can be seen as a distraction or even a weakness. Chelsea courageously challenges this narrative, revealing the emotional and physical hurdles she faced while trying to conceive, all while maintaining her role as a coach. Her call for more mums on her team is a game-changer, pushing for acceptance and support rather than judgment.

If you’re navigating your own fertility journey, whether an athlete or not, Chelsea’s story hits home in many ways. It’s a reminder that having open conversations around fertility can transform not just personal experiences but entire communities — including sports.

What Chelsea’s Story Teaches Us About Support and Awareness

Fertility struggles are often invisible. Many hesitate to share their experiences, fearing stigma or misunderstanding.
Motherhood is not a barrier to success. Chelsea embodies this by continuing to coach at the highest levels.
Creating safe spaces to talk about fertility can empower more people to seek help, build resilience, and find solidarity.
Athletic organizations can lead the way by embracing policies and cultures that support parenting athletes.

How At-Home Fertility Technologies Are Changing the Game

Stories like Chelsea’s highlight the importance of accessible fertility options. For those who want privacy, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, at-home insemination kits have become a revolutionary tool.

Companies like MakeAMom are empowering individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journeys with reusable kits designed for various needs — whether it’s low motility sperm or sensitivities like vaginismus. Imagine being able to attempt conception in the comfort and privacy of your home, on your own schedule, without the emotional or financial burden of repeated clinic visits.

The average 67% success rate reported by MakeAMom users is not just a statistic — it’s a beacon of hope for many who might otherwise feel isolated or frustrated by traditional fertility pathways.

Breaking the Silence: What Can We Do Next?

Normalize conversations about fertility and motherhood in all spheres, especially in environments traditionally dominated by silence or stigma.
Support innovative tools and resources that make fertility care more accessible and less intimidating.
Celebrate stories of resilience and courage, like Chelsea’s, to inspire and uplift others.
Advocate for inclusive policies in sports and workplaces that recognize and accommodate parenting journeys.

Let’s Start a New Playbook Together

Chelsea Pitman’s words remind us that wanting to become a parent isn’t something to hide — it’s a beautiful part of life that deserves understanding and encouragement. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, or someone quietly fighting your own fertility battles, you’re not alone.

What if every sports team, every workplace, every community started saying, “We want mums on our team”? What a powerful shift that would be.

If you’re curious about exploring your own fertility options or seeking a discreet, effective way to try at home, tools like those from MakeAMom might just be the support you need on your path.

What’s your story? Have you faced judgment or silence around fertility or motherhood? Share your experiences below — let’s build a community where every journey is honored.

Inspired by the bravery of athletes like Chelsea Pitman and the innovative spirit of fertility support systems shaping new possibilities — because everyone deserves to play on their own team.