From Chicago to London: What Moving Abroad Teaches Us About Fertility and Family Planning

Ever wonder how a big life move can unexpectedly shake up your entire approach to starting a family? Well, buckle up, because Kira West’s journey from the Windy City to the cobbled streets of London might just surprise you — and maybe even inspire a fresh look at your own fertility journey.

Recently, Business Insider shared Kira’s firsthand account of relocating for work from Chicago to London. She dives into all the juicy details: pay differences, healthcare surprises, cost of living shocks, and, you guessed it, the cultural shifts at work and play. But here's the kicker — beyond those surface changes, Kira’s story also opens up a window into how life transitions can affect family planning and fertility choices. Intrigued? Let’s unpack this.

Culture Shock: More Than Just Pints and Commuters

When Kira swapped deep-dish pizza for crumpets, she not only adapted to different accents and tax codes but also faced a new healthcare landscape. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) offers a different take on fertility treatments compared to the US system. This contrast made Kira rethink her options, sparking interest in more private, flexible solutions away from traditional clinics.

This is where home insemination kits enter the conversation — affordable, discreet, and tailored for today’s diverse family builders. Companies like MakeAMom are stepping into this space with offerings that cater to various needs: low motility sperm? Check. Sensitivities like vaginismus? Check. Frozen sperm storage? Double check.

Imagine being able to manage insemination on your own schedule wherever life takes you, whether that’s Chicago, London, or beyond. In a world that’s more nomadic and unpredictable than ever, such flexibility is a game-changer.

Budgeting Baby Plans: The Real Cost of Parenthood Across Borders

One of the biggest shocks Kira mentions is the cost of living and healthcare. It got us thinking: how does one budget for baby-making when you’re juggling currency conversions and unfamiliar insurance policies? Home insemination kits like MakeAMom’s reusable options can be a savvy solution — far more economical than multiple clinic visits or disposable tools.

Plus, their discreet packaging means privacy stays intact, no matter where you are. And with reported success rates hovering around 67%, these kits aren’t just budget-friendly; they’re effective.

Work Culture and Family Planning: Can They Coexist?

Adapting to a new work culture meant Kira had to balance longer commutes and different work expectations. This juggling act mirrors the challenges many face when trying to conceive — balancing careers, stress, and timing.

One question emerges: How can we weave fertility solutions seamlessly into our increasingly busy lives? Home insemination offers a flexible answer. When the clinic’s hours don’t fit your schedule or when privacy matters, taking control at home is empowering.

What Can We Learn From Kira’s Story?

  • Flexibility is king. Whether it’s a new city or a new fertility plan, adaptability unlocks success.
  • Knowledge is power. Understanding your options globally helps you make informed choices.
  • Privacy matters. Handling sensitive life steps on your own terms reduces stress.

If Kira’s cross-continental move shows anything, it’s that life’s twists often push us to innovate in unexpected ways. For those on a parenting journey, embracing tools designed for flexibility and success — like MakeAMom’s home insemination kits — might just be the silver lining you didn’t see coming.

Ready to take the leap and explore how at-home insemination can fit your evolving lifestyle? Dive deeper into your options, explore real success stories, and get practical tips to start your family on your terms — no matter where life’s journey takes you.

Have you ever relocated and found your fertility plans shifting because of it? Share your story or questions below — let’s get this conversation started!


Inspired by Kira West’s insightful journey from Chicago to London, reminding us all that life’s unexpected moves can lead to powerful new beginnings.

I Delayed My Dreams for Years—Here’s What a Heart Attack Taught Me About Taking Control of My Life and Fertility

Have you ever put your dreams on hold because life just seemed too busy?

I recently came across an impactful article from Business Insider titled I delayed retiring for years. My husband's heart attack taught me we could not take time for granted. It tells Kim Hunter-Borst’s story — a healthcare professional who postponed retirement because she tied her identity to her job, only to have a sudden heart attack in her husband snap her into the reality that time is precious and unpredictable.

Reading Kim’s story struck a chord with me. Not because I’m thinking about retirement, but because it reminded me of how often we delay starting the life we want—especially when it comes to having kids.

Why do we wait to begin our fertility journey?

Maybe it’s the stress of daily life, financial worries, or simply the fear of the unknown. I’ve talked to so many people who feel overwhelmed by the clinical barriers or the intimidating costs of traditional fertility treatments. Like Kim, some have put their dreams on pause, hoping for a “better time” that seems to never come.

But what if there was a gentler, more empowering way to take control?

That’s where innovations like at-home insemination kits come into play. For those who want to grow their families on their own terms, these kits offer privacy, convenience, and affordability.

Take MakeAMom, for example. They offer discreet, reusable home insemination kits designed for various needs—from low motility sperm to users with sensitivities like vaginismus. Their success rate is an impressive 67%, making the dream more attainable for many.

Imagine this: You don’t have to wait for countless clinical appointments or break the bank on disposable supplies. Instead, you can try at your own pace, in the comfort and privacy of home. It’s a game-changer in fertility empowerment.

But beyond technology and tools, Kim’s story reminds us why the emotional piece matters just as much. Life’s unpredictability—whether a health scare, a sudden change, or simply aging—teaches us that there’s no perfect time. The “right moment” might never show up unless you make it.

So how do you navigate this? Here are a few takeaways inspired both by Kim’s experience and the growing world of at-home fertility options:

  • Prioritize your emotional wellness. Fertility journeys can be a rollercoaster. Surround yourself with support, whether it’s friends, partners, or communities who get it.
  • Educate yourself on your options. Whether it’s understanding sperm motility or sensitivity issues, find solutions tailored to your needs. Resources like MakeAMom provide clear info and practical products.
  • Embrace control where you can. At-home insemination kits put you in the driver’s seat, letting you experiment on your own terms without anxiety or judgment.
  • Don’t wait for life to “settle.” Life is messy, unpredictable, and sometimes fragile. The best time to try is when you feel ready.

If Kim Hunter-Borst’s story teaches us anything, it’s that time is a gift we can’t take for granted. Whether it’s retiring, starting a family, or chasing any dream, the clock is ticking quietly in the background.

So, here’s my question to you: What is one dream or goal you’ve been postponing? And what’s one small step you can take today toward making it real?

If starting your family is one of those dreams, exploring discreet, effective, and supportive at-home infertility solutions might just be that step. You can find more about these innovative options and how they can work for you at MakeAMom’s resource site.

Life is short, and unpredictable—so why wait to embrace your journey?

I’d love to hear your thoughts or stories about taking charge of life’s unexpected moments. Share in the comments below and let’s support each other in making dreams happen, one brave step at a time.

How She Grew a $200K Business to $33M While Parenting 4 Kids—And What That Means for Your Fertility Journey

Ever wondered how some people defy all odds to achieve the impossible? Kristina Bouweiri’s story is nothing short of astonishing: she turned a struggling limousine company from $200,000 in revenue into a $33 million powerhouse, all while being the primary parent to four children at home. You can read about her incredible journey in her own words in this Business Insider article.

Her story is a powerful reminder that resilience, determination, and innovation can unlock doors we never thought possible — whether that’s in business, parenting, or the deeply personal quest many face: building a family.

Why Kristina’s Journey Resonates Beyond Business

Kristina took the reins during a pandemic when uncertainty was rampant, and traditional support systems felt stretched thin. She didn’t just keep the company afloat; she grew it exponentially. Meanwhile, her ex-husband stayed home to care for their four children.

This role reversal challenges traditional narratives about who ‘should’ be the breadwinner or primary caregiver. For those on a fertility journey—especially people using home insemination kits or fertility tools—Kristina’s story offers a compelling lesson: achieving your goals is about crafting your own path, not following a preset script.

What Does This Mean for Your Fertility Journey?

Building a family today looks different for everyone. Whether you’re a single parent, part of an LGBTQ+ couple, or simply exploring alternatives outside traditional clinical settings, there’s no one “right” way.

Just like Kristina harnessed her unique strengths and circumstances to flourish, you too can approach your fertility journey with empowerment and flexibility.

  • Take control: Home insemination kits offer autonomy to try conception on your own terms.
  • Choose what fits: Whether it’s a kit designed for low motility sperm, sensitivities like vaginismus, or for use with frozen samples, there’s a personalized solution.
  • Find cost-effective options: Reusable kits mean you can try multiple times without exploding your budget.

To support this, companies like MakeAMom have innovated products that are discreet, affordable, and come with impressive success rates — providing vital hope and practicality for those who want to build their families at home.

The Power of Creating Your Own Narrative

Kristina’s story isn’t just about numbers; it’s about redefining what’s possible when you lean into your strengths and circumstances. Fertility journeys can feel isolating or overwhelming, but remember: you hold the power to write your own story.

Brace yourself for a journey with twists and turns, but also with moments of joy, growth, and breakthrough. Whether you’re diving into home insemination or exploring other reproductive wellness tools, the key is to stay resilient and resourceful.

What Can You Do Today?

  • Take a moment to reflect on what your unique strengths and situation are in your fertility journey.
  • Research tailored solutions that fit your lifestyle. For example, if you’re looking into home insemination, explore kits designed for your specific needs — like those developed thoughtfully by MakeAMom.
  • Connect with communities or read inspiring stories to remind yourself you’re not alone.

In Closing: Your Journey Is Your Power

Kristina Bouweiri’s story teaches us that the impossible can become possible when we believe in our capacity to adapt and succeed. That same spirit can fuel your steps toward parenthood — no matter how unconventional the path.

So here’s the question for you: What bold step will you take today to embrace your unique fertility journey and build the family you dream of?

Leave your thoughts and stories below — let’s inspire each other!


If you're curious about practical, home-based solutions for conception, explore innovative, reusable insemination kits that empower you to take charge on your terms. Discover thoughtful options tailored for different needs at MakeAMom’s website. Because your path to parenthood should be as unique as you are.

How an U19 Football Comeback Inspired My Fertility Journey (And What You Need to Know Before Starting Yours)

Have you ever watched a game-changer and thought, 'Hey, that's me!'?

Last night, while doom-scrolling on my couch (don’t judge), I stumbled upon the highlights from the England U19s’ Women’s European Championship match. England was down at half-time, but came roaring back in the second half, scoring twice to beat the Netherlands. The whole vibe was electric—goosebumps, tears, even a fist-pump that startled my cat. You have to see it for yourself to get what I mean.

But here’s what hit me: Their comeback wasn’t just a football moment. The more I thought about it, the more it felt like the emotional rollercoaster of starting a fertility journey—especially when you’re doing at-home insemination. The nerves, the setbacks, the hope, the absolute WILD swing from “Is this really happening?” to “YES, THIS IS HAPPENING!”

Let’s talk about comebacks—both on the pitch and with pee sticks on your bathroom counter.


That Second-Half Feeling: When It Seems Like You’re Losing

If you’re here, odds are you’ve experienced it: the sting of a negative test, the endless tracking apps, maybe even some side-eye from well-meaning relatives. It starts to feel like you’re always behind, like pregnancy comes easily to everyone but you.

But just like England’s halftime, it’s not the end of the game—it’s just the pause before things really start to change.

Open loop: What actually helps make that comeback happen, when you’re tired and hope feels way out of reach?


Tiny Adjustments, Big Results: The Unsung Heroes

England’s coach didn’t give up at halftime. She regrouped, tweaked the team, and set them up for a killer comeback. In fertility, those tweaks matter, too—whether it’s switching insemination kits, adjusting timing, or finding community support.

I learned this the hard way. I started out thinking any kit would do, ordered a random set from an unknown site, and, well… let’s just say the “learning curve” was more like a brick wall. But after researching (okay, obsessively scrolling Reddit threads), I found kits with actual design features that fit my situation—like options for low motility or sensitivities.

That’s when I landed on MakeAMom’s product guides. Real talk: Nobody’s journey is identical, but reading testimonials from people with PCOS, vaginismus, or using frozen sperm (hello, CryoBaby kit!) helped me realize I wasn’t alone—or doing it wrong.


The Numbers Game: Don’t Let Statistics Get You Down

Here’s another thing: the England squad didn’t let the scoreboard define them at halftime. Similarly, if you’re staring at stats and success rates, remember—67% is the average success rate for MakeAMom’s home insemination clients. That means comebacks are normal, not rare!

Here’s what turned the tide for me: - Switching from a generic kit to one meant for my unique needs (hi, BabyMaker). - Tracking ovulation smarter, not harder—no more frantic testing every hour. - Connecting with people who understood—whether it was reading reviews, joining online forums, or simply talking it out.

Each “tiny adjustment” felt small, but together? Game-changing.


Privacy, Hope, and That First-Goal Feeling

On a personal note, one of my biggest fears was privacy. (I work in a nosy office. Home deliveries are… complicated.) The fact that MakeAMom ships their kits in totally plain packaging? Chef’s kiss. No logo, no hints—just hope, delivered in a brown box.

The first time I saw those two lines, it was honestly as exhilarating as watching England’s game-winning goal. My comeback didn’t look like everyone else’s, but it still counted.


Ready for Your Own Comeback? Here’s What Nobody Tells You:

  • You’re allowed to feel both defeated and hopeful—often at the same time.
  • Every cycle is a second half; it’s not over until it’s over.
  • The right kit can truly make all the difference, especially when it fits your body and your story.
  • Privacy, cost, and reusability matter more than you think.
  • There’s an entire community out there, rooting for your success.

Still not sure where to start? Check out the real-life stories and guides—sometimes, the comeback starts with a simple scroll.


What do you think—are you ready for your own second-half comeback? Or maybe you’ve already scored your game-winning goal? Comment below with your story, your questions, or even your halftime pep-talks. You never know who you might inspire next.