The Shocking Intersection of Fertility and Horror: What 'Push' Reveals About Pregnancy Anxiety

- Posted in Mental Health & Emotional Support by

Have you ever noticed how pregnancy can evoke both immense joy and deep anxiety? Whether you're actively trying to conceive or simply thinking about starting a family, the journey is often painted in rosy colors—filled with hope and anticipation. But what happens when the darker side of pregnancy fear comes to light? That's exactly what the new horror thriller Push explores, and it raises some surprising questions about the emotional realities behind fertility.

Recently, Shudder released an official trailer for Push, an indie pregnancy horror thriller directed by David Charbonier & Justin Powell. Premiering at the 2024 Sitges Film Festival, Push stars Alicia Sanz and Raúl Castillo in a chilling tale that dives into unsettling territory. The film has been described as a “pregnancy horror thriller,” a genre mashup that’s still quite rare.

But why a pregnancy horror thriller, you might ask? Pregnancy is often idealized in media, but for many, it’s fraught with stress, uncertainty, and sometimes trauma. The trailer evokes that visceral anxiety, perfectly capturing the emotional rollercoaster that many people experience during conception and pregnancy.

So what can fertility tech advocates and hopeful parents learn from this? Let’s unpack the connection.

The Hidden Fears Behind Fertility Journeys

Trying to conceive can feel like an emotional minefield. From hormone swings to the pressure of timing ovulation, it’s no wonder fertility journeys often come with their own mental health challenges. The fear of loss, the pressure from societal expectations, and the rollercoaster of hope and despair can be overwhelming.

Push taps directly into those anxieties, dramatizing fears that many silently endure. It’s a reminder that emotional support and mental health resources are just as important as the medical or technological side of fertility.

How At-Home Fertility Solutions Are Changing the Landscape

In this backdrop of complex emotions, at-home fertility technologies have been game-changers. Companies like MakeAMom offer innovative kits designed to make conception more accessible and less clinical—giving people control and privacy in their fertility journeys.

MakeAMom’s product line caters to various needs, including kits optimized for low motility sperm or for those sensitive to traditional methods. Their Impregnator kit, for example, is tailored specifically to support people using low motility sperm, making a difficult situation more manageable from the comfort of home. Beyond the physical tools, the psychological comfort of discreet, user-friendly options can alleviate some of the stress surrounding fertility treatments.

If you’re curious about these advances, check out this detailed look at the Impregnator at-home insemination kit and how it empowers individuals with effective, accessible options.

Why Mental Health Support Can’t Be an Afterthought

As Push reveals through its unsettling narrative, the mental and emotional facets of pregnancy are profound. For those undergoing fertility treatments or at-home insemination, mental health support should be integrated into the care plan.

  • Open conversations: Talking about fears normalizes them.
  • Counseling: Specialized fertility counselors can help navigate trauma.
  • Community: Connecting with others facing similar experiences reduces isolation.

Understanding the darker emotional currents can enable better support networks for those on these journeys.

Looking Ahead: Fertility Journeys Embrace the Full Spectrum of Experiences

The emergence of Push signals a cultural shift acknowledging the complexity of pregnancy feelings—not just the triumphs but also the fears and struggles. Fertility technology companies and healthcare providers are beginning to integrate these insights, offering solutions that address the whole person, not just the biology.

If you’re exploring fertility options, remember: it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions. Tools like MakeAMom’s kits provide practical assistance, while communities and mental health resources offer emotional support.

Pregnancy and fertility are multifaceted experiences, and recognizing that truth is empowering. Whether you relate more to the hopeful or the anxious side of this journey, informed choices and compassionate care are key.

For those interested in a gripping, thought-provoking glimpse into the emotional landscape of pregnancy, don’t miss the trailer for Push here.

What do you think—can horror help us understand pregnancy anxiety better? Have you encountered unexpected emotions during your fertility journey? Share your thoughts below and let’s continue this important conversation.


This post was brought to you in part by MakeAMom, pioneers in at-home insemination technology helping individuals take control of their fertility in private, affordable, and effective ways.