Kitly

Ever felt like you’re expected to ‘bounce back’ after pregnancy — like some sort of fitness boomerang? Yeah, us too. But here’s the kicker: in 2025, that outdated pressure is finally being called out, and it’s time for a major mindset shift.

Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds during her pregnancy, recently shared her refreshingly honest journey in this Business Insider article. Instead of trying to snap back like a rubber band, Emily embraced the idea of being a beginner again — kindness over criticism, patience over pressure. The result? A more joyful, realistic path back to fitness that celebrates the incredible changes her body made to create life.

Why is this mindset shift so powerful?

Because pregnancy and postpartum are major life transitions — physical, emotional, and mental. Society’s old-school “bounce back” mentality often overlooks the radical transformation your body undergoes and the complex emotions hanging in the balance. But embracing your new normal, and starting fresh without judgment, can be a game-changer for mental health and motivation.

Now, you might be wondering, how does this tie into home insemination and fertility? Great question!

The connection: Fertility journeys require similar kindness and empowerment

Whether you’re embarking on parenthood via conception at home or assisted methods, the journey is filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. Companies like MakeAMom have revolutionized the experience by providing at-home insemination kits that empower individuals and couples to take control of their fertility journey in comfort and privacy.

Their reusable kits, like CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker, are designed with unique fertility challenges in mind — from low sperm motility to sensitivities such as vaginismus. But beyond the technology, what stands out is how these solutions honor your pace and journey, allowing you to embrace reproduction on your own terms, much like Emily’s approach to postpartum fitness.

Embracing the beginner mindset in fertility

Just like starting fitness over postpartum, stepping into fertility treatments or home insemination can feel like beginning anew — full of uncertainty and vulnerability. But that beginner mindset can spur growth, resilience, and hope. Instead of pressuring yourself to “have it all figured out,” imagine welcoming each step as an opportunity to learn and grow.

How can you cultivate kindness in your fertility and postpartum journey?

• Listen to your body and emotions: Every change is part of your unique story.
• Celebrate small wins: Whether it’s a successful insemination or a day you feel strong, pause and acknowledge progress.
• Seek supportive resources: Tools like MakeAMom’s discreet, user-friendly kits can offer reassurance and control.
• Connect with others: Sharing experiences can lighten the emotional load.

Why MakeAMom stands out

Aside from their impressive 67% average success rate, MakeAMom’s approach prioritizes discretion and accessibility — their kits arrive in plain packaging, removing the stigma and worry. Plus, cost-effective, reusable kits mean you’re not just investing in a product; you’re investing in empowerment.

Wrapping it up: It’s time to redefine what success looks like

Forget “bouncing back.” Instead, think “starting forward.” Whether you’re rebuilding strength after baby or navigating the complexities of conception, kindness and patience are your best allies. Let’s celebrate the messy, beautiful beginnings — because those first steps set the stage for incredible journeys ahead.

If you’re curious about how at-home fertility solutions can fit into your story, check out this thoughtful resource on modern at-home insemination kits. After all, every great journey begins with a single, empowered step.

So tell us: What’s one way you’re practicing kindness with yourself today? Drop your thoughts below — we’re all in this together!