Why Netflix’s ‘Messy Girl Summer’ Missed the Mark — And What It Teaches Us About Fertility Journeys
Have you ever felt like life just doesn’t fit into the neat little boxes society expects?
Recently, Netflix launched a new recommendation row called ‘Messy Girl Summer’—a quirky, messy, and raw celebration of imperfect, relatable female characters. While many fans, including myself, loved the idea, I read an honest commentary on CNET titled “I Think Netflix's New 'Messy Girl Summer' Category Missed a Few Titles, but I've Got You”. The author loved the concept but wished some of her favorite “messy” titles were included. It got me thinking — what if we applied this same lens of embracing imperfection and complexity to a topic close to my heart: fertility journeys?
Fertility isn’t tidy. It’s beautifully messy.
Just like those ‘messy girls’ on Netflix who live, love, stumble, and grow authentically, so do individuals and couples trying to conceive. The path to parenthood often comes with unexpected hurdles, emotional rollercoasters, and moments of doubt. There’s no “perfect” timeline, no one-size-fits-all approach, and definitely no shame in embracing the “messiness” along the way.
Why Embracing the Mess Matters in Fertility
It’s Okay to Feel All the Feelings: From hope to heartbreak, anger to joy, fertility journeys stir a storm of emotions. Recognizing this as a natural part of the process can be liberating.
No “Right” Way to Try: Whether through natural methods, clinical assistance, or at-home insemination, every person’s path is uniquely theirs. The idea that you have to follow a strict protocol is outdated.
Imperfection Leads to Growth: Often, the struggles in fertility lead to deeper self-awareness, resilience, and even community connection.
This perspective aligns beautifully with the ethos behind innovative, home-based conception solutions like MakeAMom. Their at-home insemination kits—CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker—offer people the freedom to take fertility into their own hands, outside of clinical settings, with care and privacy. The fact that these kits cater to different needs (from low motility to sensitivities) reminds us: one size doesn’t fit all, and that’s okay.
What Netflix’s ‘Messy Girl Summer’ Misses — But Fertility Advocates Don’t
The CNET article points out a valid critique: some beloved “messy” stories were left out of Netflix’s initial lineup. This highlights a universal truth — no single narrative can capture the full spectrum of human experiences. The same is true for fertility stories.
Thankfully, the fertility community—online forums, organizations like MakeAMom, and blogs like KitNavigator—celebrates the diverse realities of trying to conceive. These spaces invite honesty, vulnerability, and hope, much like the stories we crave on screen.
How to Celebrate Your Own ‘Messy Girl’ Fertility Summer
Ready to embrace your own imperfect, powerful story? Here are a few ideas:
- Own Your Journey: No matter how many twists and turns, this is your story—own it without apology.
- Educate Yourself: Tools like MakeAMom’s reusable, cost-effective kits empower you with options you might not have considered.
- Seek Support: Connect with communities that understand the highs and lows.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Each step forward, each attempt, each insight is worth honoring.
- Stay Open to Possibility: The road may be messy, but it’s also filled with hope.
In a World Obsessed With Perfection, Choose to Be Messy and Brave
Netflix’s new category, while imperfect, reminds us that stories worth sharing aren’t always polished—they’re real. Your fertility journey is no different. It may not be a straight line, but it is a story of courage, tenacity, and love.
If you’re looking for ways to explore at-home insemination with dignity and privacy, consider what products like those from MakeAMom can offer. With a reported success rate of 67% and thoughtful designs to fit diverse needs, they might just be the partner you didn’t know you needed.
So here’s my question to you—what does your ‘Messy Girl Summer’ look like this year? Share your story, your struggles, your brave moments. Because in the messiness, we find our most inspiring selves.
And if you want to dive deeper, check out the full article on Netflix’s new category here.