Why Netflix’s ‘Messy Girl Summer’ Misses The Mark—And What That Teaches Us About Fertility Journeys
Posted on 24 July 2025 by Priya Menon — 4 min
I never thought a Netflix category could teach us so much about fertility—but here we are.
Recently, a witty piece on CNET called out Netflix’s new ‘Messy Girl Summer’ category for missing some of the best shows that truly capture the spirit of, well, messy but fabulous summers. It got me thinking: what does ‘messy’ really mean in the broader context of life? And more importantly, what if we celebrated the 'messy' parts of fertility journeys as openly as we do a quirky TV lineup?
Let’s unpack that, shall we?
What is ‘Messy Girl Summer,’ Anyway?
For those out of the loop, Netflix’s ‘Messy Girl Summer’ is a curated section aimed at capturing the chaotic, unpredictable, yet utterly relatable vibe of summer stories centered mostly on young, vibrant women. However, as the CNET commentary pointed out, some essential titles were missing, leaving a gap in representation.
Similarly, fertility journeys—especially within the LGBTQ+ community—are often messy, complex, emotionally charged, and definitely far from a neat, straightforward storyline.
The Overlooked ‘Messy’ of LGBTQ+ Fertility
While the pop culture world occasionally shines a spotlight on unconventional love stories, the nuanced realities of LGBTQ+ family-building rarely get front and center. Many people don’t realize how challenging and yet empowering these journeys are.
The truth? Navigating fertility with partners of all genders involves unique hurdles: access to care, privacy concerns, medical sensitivities, and sometimes, the sheer logistical puzzle of conception. It’s not always seamless. Sometimes it’s downright messy.
Enter At-Home Insemination Kits: The Game-Changer
Here’s where innovation meets intimacy. Companies like MakeAMom have stepped up with simple, effective at-home insemination kits designed precisely for these 'messy' but beautiful paths to parenthood.
Why is this important?
- Privacy and Comfort: No awkward clinic visits or waiting rooms. This is about reclaiming control in your own space.
- Tailored Solutions: From low motility sperm to sensitive users, kits like CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker address specific needs.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Reusable kits mean more affordable options without sacrificing success rates.
If Netflix’s ‘Messy Girl Summer’ misses out on authentic, messy realities, MakeAMom embraces them fully—helping people turn hopes into tangible outcomes.
What Netflix’s Oversight Teaches Us
Missing titles in a curated selection might seem trivial, but it highlights a broader cultural tendency: glossing over complexities for the sake of neat marketing.
In reproductive health, this translates into a lack of understanding about just how much courage and innovation it takes for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples to start families. It’s messy, it’s real, and it’s worthy of being front and center.
Let’s Get Real: Fertility Isn’t Always a Straight Line
Forget the glossy Instagram stories. Fertility journeys can involve:
- Unpredictable timelines
- Emotional rollercoasters
- Unique medical needs
- The challenge (and triumph!) of breaking stigma
But with resources tailored for privacy and comfort—like MakeAMom’s discreetly shipped kits—we can embrace the messiness with less stress and more hope.
Bonus: What Shows Should Be On That List?
If Netflix wants to level up its ‘Messy Girl Summer’ game, let’s suggest adding stories that showcase LGBTQ+ parenting, non-traditional family building, and the beauty of imperfection. Because that’s real life.
The Takeaway
Just as a curated streaming category can miss the depths of real stories, we must remember to look beyond the surface in fertility journeys. Embracing the 'messy' means accepting the unpredictability, the challenges, and the joy that come together in creating families.
And, if you or someone you know is exploring at-home insemination as part of that journey, knowing companies like MakeAMom offer supportive, innovative solutions can make all the difference.
So, What’s Your Messy Story?
Whether it’s about your favorite ‘messy’ TV binge or your fertility adventure, sharing makes us stronger. What’s the one thing you wish more people understood about your journey? Drop a comment below—let’s get real and messy together.
For the curious, here’s the original CNET article that sparked this whole reflection: I Think Netflix's New 'Messy Girl Summer' Category Missed a Few Titles, but I've Got You.