Has anyone ever assumed you’re pregnant—when you’re not? Or, even worse, has someone ever reached out and actually touched your belly, all because of a little bump, bloat, or sometimes, just their own wild imagination? If yes, you’re not alone. If not… well, buckle up, because you might be next in line for this next-level awkwardness.
Earlier this week, I stumbled upon the viral story making the rounds: Her Coworker Rubbed Her Belly Assuming She’s Pregnant, So She Put Her In Her Place. In 2025, pregnancy comments are so last decade—but somehow, they're still happening. And honestly, it’s exhausting. It’s also a ridiculous reminder of just how personal, unpredictable, and sensitive the fertility journey can be… especially when it’s happening at home, behind closed doors, and not on public display.
Why Are We Still Doing This in 2025?
Let’s get real: the way we talk about pregnancy—and just as importantly, the way we don’t—needs an upgrade. Our bodies are not a group project. Our reproductive choices are not office gossip fodder. Yet, assumptions about fertility are everywhere, and they’re not always coming from a place of genuine care. Sometimes, it’s just nosiness or awkward curiosity dressed up as “concern.”
Have you ever been on the receiving end of a fertility comment or question that caught you completely off guard? I have. Whether it was “When’s the baby coming?” at a family dinner, or a well-meaning friend eyeing my lunch order with a smile that said “You’re eating for two, right?”, it feels like your privacy is suddenly public property.
The Invisible Side of the At-Home Fertility Journey
Here’s the thing: most people have no idea what’s really going on in someone’s fertility journey. Maybe you’re actively trying. Maybe you’re struggling. Maybe you’re going through miscarriage, IVF, or using a donor. Or maybe, you’re on a completely different path altogether. That’s the beauty—and the pain—of it all. Our stories are unique. And increasingly, our journeys are happening at home in ways no one else sees.
At-home insemination kits are a game-changer for so many. They offer privacy, comfort, and (let’s be honest) way less awkwardness than a doctor’s office. Whether you’re a same-sex couple, a solo mom by choice, or dealing with medical challenges, kits like CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker (yes, those are real names) mean you don’t have to answer nosy questions from strangers—or even coworkers who think belly-rubbing is appropriate. If you want to get a sense of what’s possible, this resource on making at-home family building more accessible is eye-opening, and honestly, super validating if you’re craving a less public journey.
Why Boundaries Matter (And How to Claim Yours)
So, what do you actually do when someone crosses the line? That story on TwistedSifter is the stuff of legend: snapping back at the coworker in the moment took guts. But not everyone is ready, or able, to go full “drag them” mode in the office. Here’s what I’ve learned about keeping your peace:
- Practice Your Scripts: “That’s a personal question. I’d prefer not to discuss it.” Or just: “No, I’m not.” Short, sweet, and effective.
- Protect Your Energy: It’s okay to walk away or change the subject. Not every comment deserves a response.
- Educate When You Can: If you’re feeling bold, reminding people that everyone’s journey is different—and private—can open eyes.
- Remember, You Don’t Owe Anyone Your Story: Whether you’re using at-home insemination, considering adoption, or simply living your life, your choices are yours.
The Emotional Roller Coaster No One Sees
What hit me hardest about the viral story wasn’t just the awkwardness. It was the reminder that for so many of us, every innocent comment—every “When are you going to have another?”—can land like a sucker punch. Because behind closed doors, you might be tracking cycles, taking tests, and juggling hope and heartbreak. Or maybe, you’re just tired of your body being everyone else’s business.
You are not alone. In fact, the number of people opting for home insemination methods is growing fast—and for good reason. The privacy, the empowerment, and the sense of agency it gives you is priceless. And, according to recent data, home insemination with the right support (like MakeAMom’s kits, which have a reported 67% success rate) can be just as effective, if not more comforting, than clinical settings. It’s not just about getting pregnant; it’s about owning your journey, on your own terms.
Let’s Change the Conversation
So what if we retired the assumption that every bump is a baby, and every woman of “a certain age” wants to talk about her fertility? What if, instead, we created space for people to open up—if and when they want to? Maybe we’d hear more real stories, less awkward laughter, and a lot fewer unsolicited belly rubs.
If you’re on your own family-building journey (at home, in-clinic, or somewhere in between), take this as your permission slip: your timeline, your body, and your privacy are yours alone. And if you want a little inspiration or practical support, I can’t recommend checking out the smart, user-friendly info on making your fertility journey yours enough. It might just change the way you think about what’s possible—no awkward office moments required.
Have you ever dealt with an uncomfortable fertility assumption? How did you handle it? Share your story below—let’s keep the conversation real, supportive, and absolutely belly-rub free.