Think you know everything about teen moms? Think again.

If you’ve ever caught yourself rolling your eyes or whispering “teen pregnancy” with judgment, it’s time for a reality check. Leila Mottley, a young novelist and doula, has just dropped a literary bombshell in her latest book The Girls Who Grew Big. This novel follows three young women in a small Florida town as they navigate the often chaotic, deeply personal odyssey of pregnancy and motherhood.

But here’s the kicker: instead of pandering to tired stereotypes, Mottley dives deep into the complexities, dreams, and raw truths of teen moms — unfiltered, unapologetic, and utterly human.

Why does this matter for the fertility world?

You may be wondering, “What’s a novel got to do with fertility solutions or the latest in assisted reproduction?” Well, everything!

For one, stories like Mottley’s remind us that pregnancy and motherhood are journeys with endless variations — some expected, some less so. They humanize the experience, giving faces and voices to groups often marginalized or misunderstood. And this, in turn, shapes how society supports (or fails to support) those on these journeys.

Breaking the stigma, one story at a time

Teen moms are often painted as reckless or doomed, a narrative that adds heaps of emotional stress and isolation on their already tough path. But Mottley, being a doula herself, brings authenticity. She shows us young women who are resilient, hopeful, and fiercely loving, even amid challenges many adults wouldn’t envy.

It’s a reminder that emotional support can be just as critical as medical interventions in fertility and motherhood. After all, no one embarks on pregnancy or parenthood in a vacuum—mental health and community shape outcomes just as much as biology.

Speaking of support, here’s where modern fertility solutions step in

Navigating pregnancy at any age can be daunting, and for some, clinical routes aren’t accessible or preferred. That’s why companies like MakeAMom are changing the game. They offer at-home insemination kits that empower individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journeys privately, affordably, and comfortably.

Whether you’re dealing with low sperm motility, sensitivities, or other barriers, MakeAMom’s innovative kits like the CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker cater to different needs — all designed to help bring new life into the world without the stress of countless clinic visits.

And here’s a fun fact: their clients report a 67% success rate. Not too shabby for making miracles happen from the comfort of your bedroom, right?

So, what’s the takeaway?

• Stories shape perceptions: Leila Mottley’s novel invites us to drop judgment and embrace empathy, especially for teen moms.
• Mental health matters: Support systems, emotional care, and understanding create better outcomes for parents and babies.
• Accessible fertility options exist: Innovations like MakeAMom’s at-home kits offer new paths for growing families.

We’re living in a time when every fertility journey is unique — and that’s the beautiful truth worth celebrating. If you’re curious about exploring inclusive and convenient fertility options or just want to dive deeper into these stories, head over to MakeAMom’s information hub or check out Mottley’s insightful novel for a fresh perspective.

Before you go...

How has society’s perception of teen pregnancy shaped your views on motherhood or fertility? Have you or someone you know found unexpected support or solutions outside the norm? Share your thoughts below — let’s break the stigma together.

For more on Leila Mottley’s eye-opening work, check out the original NPR interview here.

Because understanding is the first step to change.