Why the Internet Can’t Stop Speculating About Pregnancy—And What It Means for Real People on a Fertility Journey

Let’s be real—nothing gets the internet more fired up than a good old-fashioned pregnancy rumor.

Just ask TikTok superstar Mikayla Nogueira, who recently had to address a wave of speculation about her and her husband Cody potentially expecting. In a world where eagle-eyed followers catch every outfit and side profile, Mikayla's comments section quickly filled up with everything from well-meaning curiosity to flat-out invasive questions. According to E! Online’s recent coverage, Mikayla shut it down with grace, telling fans, “If I was pregnant, believe me, you’d know.”

But this whole episode got me thinking: why is pregnancy still everyone’s business but your own? And more importantly, what does it feel like to be on a fertility journey when all of social media—heck, sometimes even your own family—are obsessed with guessing what’s happening in your uterus?

The “Are You Pregnant Yet?” Question: It’s Everywhere

Raise your hand if you’ve ever: - Posted a group photo and had someone zoom in on your stomach. - Skipped a glass of wine at dinner, only for someone to wink and ask, “Something you want to tell us?” - Been married for more than a year and gotten not-so-subtle hints from relatives.

I see you. And trust me, you’re not alone. In 2025, even with all our progress, the minute you reach adulthood—especially if you’re married or in a relationship—everyone thinks it’s open season on your reproductive plans.

Why Do We Love Speculating About Pregnancy?

Here’s the thing: speculation about someone’s pregnancy status isn’t new, but social media has taken it to Olympic levels. Every Instagram like, outfit choice, or “cryptic” post becomes “evidence” in a never-ending game of virtual clue. For public figures like Mikayla Nogueira, this is a weekly—if not daily—occurrence. But even for regular folks, the line between curiosity and intrusive gets blurry fast.

We want to believe that we’re supporting people, celebrating good news, or just “having fun,” but for those on a fertility journey, these questions can sting more than we realize.

The Hidden Toll: When Curiosity Crosses a Line

If you’re fortunate enough to get pregnant exactly when you want, maybe these questions feel harmless. But for so many of us—1 in 8 couples, according to the CDC—trying to conceive isn’t as simple as just deciding to start a family.

Every seemingly “innocent” comment can be a reminder: - Of how long you’ve been trying. - Of the procedures and cycles that didn’t work out. - Of the private hopes and heartbreaks you’re carrying.

For people struggling with infertility, or navigating alternative paths to parenthood (hello, IUI, IVF, at-home insemination!), social media speculation can feel like salt in a wound.

How Should We Respond? (Hint: With Boundaries & Empathy)

Mikayla handled her situation with humor and grace, but not everyone feels comfortable laying it all out online. If you’re facing nosy questions, here are a few ways to handle it:

• Set clear boundaries: “We’ll share when we’re ready.”
• Redirect the conversation: “Why do you ask?” or jokingly, “Nope, just had a big lunch!”
• Practice self-care: Only you know what you need—maybe that’s a social media break or leaning on your support system.

And if you’re tempted to ask someone else about their baby plans? Maybe pause and remember: their story might be more complicated than it looks.

Real Talk: Fertility Solutions Are Evolving (and You’ve Got Options!)

As someone who’s felt the sting of those questions, let me say: you are not alone, and you do NOT owe anyone a timeline. Plus, you don’t have to navigate this journey in silence or only in a doctor’s office.

Modern solutions, like at-home insemination kits, are letting individuals and couples take more control over their fertility journey—on their terms. Companies like MakeAMom’s innovative home insemination solutions can be a game-changer, offering you privacy, flexibility, and the chance to write your own story. Whether you’re dealing with low motility sperm, sensitivities, or just want a more comfortable, cost-effective pathway to conception, knowing you have choices can make the wait a little less daunting.

The Bottom Line (and a Challenge to You)

The next time you see a post—celebrity or not—pause before you comment. Ask yourself: “Am I supporting, or just speculating?” Our words can be powerful, and sometimes, the kindest thing we can do is not to ask at all.

And for everyone on their fertility journey? Your timeline is YOURS. Whether you’re celebrating a positive test, trying a home kit, or just living in the moment, you don’t have to fit anyone else’s narrative.

Have you ever dealt with prying questions or social media speculation about your fertility? How did you handle it? Share your story below—we’d love to hear from you and support each other!