You might think compulsive behaviors like shoplifting have nothing to do with fertility struggles — but you'd be surprised.
Recently, a revealing Dear Abby letter caught my eye: a woman bravely shared her battle with pathological shoplifting, a compulsive urge she can't seem to beat. Her story, published in the June 26, 2025 New York Post article, reminds us how deeply mental health challenges can pervade every area of our lives — including those intensely personal and emotional journeys to parenthood. (Read the full story here)
Why am I bringing this up on Kitly, a fertility blog? Because fertility struggles often come bundled with emotional trials that aren’t talked about enough. Anxiety, compulsive thoughts, and feelings of loss or inadequacy can creep in silently, just like the compulsions described in Abby’s letter. And when you’re navigating options like at-home insemination, these emotions can feel even more overwhelming.
The Hidden Emotional Side of Trying to Conceive
Whether you’re using the CryoBaby kit for frozen sperm, the Impregnator for low motility sperm, or the BabyMaker designed specifically to help those with sensitivities or conditions like vaginismus, the journey to parenthood is rarely straightforward. What many don’t realize is how rollercoaster-like the emotional landscape can be — sometimes triggering or exacerbating mental health struggles.
- Frustration and repeated setbacks can fuel feelings of helplessness.
- Privacy and secrecy around fertility treatments can isolate us.
- The pressure to “succeed” quickly can trigger anxiety or compulsive behaviors as coping mechanisms.
All this emotional weight can sometimes lead to unexpected behaviors or feelings that don’t make sense on the surface. Like the woman in Abby’s letter, who felt powerless in her compulsions — many face invisible battles beneath the surface of their fertility journey.
How to Recognize and Regain Control
If you recognize overlapping feelings of compulsion, anxiety, or overwhelming frustration during your fertility journey, you’re not alone — and there are empowering steps you can take:
- Acknowledge your feelings without judgment. It’s okay to feel angry, sad, or frustrated.
- Seek support from professionals and communities. Fertility coaches, therapists specializing in reproductive mental health, and support groups can be lifesavers.
- Choose tools designed with your emotional well-being in mind. For example, MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits are designed not only for effectiveness but also ease, privacy, and user comfort — reducing stress and making each attempt more hopeful, not heartbreaking.
- Practice mindfulness and self-care. Simple daily habits can rebuild your emotional resilience.
Why Choosing the Right At-Home Insemination Kit Can Make a Difference
The journey toward parenthood should feel empowering, not depleting. That’s why companies like MakeAMom are revolutionizing the experience with kits like CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker — all thoughtfully designed to address different reproductive needs while respecting your privacy and budget.
Their reusable kits aren’t just a cost-effective alternative to disposable options; they come discreetly packaged to ensure your comfort and confidence. Most importantly, MakeAMom reports an impressive 67% average success rate, offering tangible hope to those working through emotional and physical challenges.
What’s the Takeaway?
The emotional side of fertility is real, complex, and sometimes mirrors struggles we wouldn’t normally connect with it — like compulsive behaviors. Recognizing this connection opens the door to healing not just your body, but your mind and spirit too.
So if you’re feeling overwhelmed on your path to parenthood, remember: you’re not in this alone. Embrace resources that support your whole self — body, mind, and heart. And don’t be afraid to reach out for help, whether it’s professional counseling or a more supportive, comfortable insemination experience.
What emotional challenges have you faced on your fertility journey? How have you coped? We’d love to hear your story or tips in the comments below. Because sometimes, sharing is the first step to healing.
Here's to hope, healing, and the beautiful journey ahead. 🌟