Why We Need Moms on the Team: Breaking the Silence Around Fertility in Sports

Have you ever felt judged for wanting something deeply personal — like becoming a parent — and thought, ‘Why is this still taboo?’

Chelsea Pitman, Nottingham Forest’s netball coach, recently opened up about her tough fertility journey in a heartfelt interview with the BBC. Her story isn’t just about her personal struggle; it’s a powerful spotlight on how pregnancy and motherhood are often overlooked or even stigmatized in the world of professional sports. If you missed it, you can read the full article here.

So, why does this matter to all of us — whether we're athletes, partners, or simply people navigating the complex emotions around starting a family?

The Hidden Challenge: Fertility and Motherhood in Sports

Chelsea’s experience reveals a silent battle many women face behind the scenes. The pressure to perform, maintain peak physical condition, and compete at the highest level can feel at odds with the natural desire to start a family. More than that, the fear of judgment or being perceived as ‘less committed’ often forces athletes to keep their fertility struggles under wraps.

This isn’t just a sports issue; it’s a societal challenge. Women everywhere face myths and taboos about fertility, and when you layer on the competitiveness and visibility of professional sports, those challenges feel magnified.

Why Talking About Fertility Matters

Opening the conversation, like Chelsea has, changes everything. It creates a space for empathy and practical solutions. When we normalize the topic, we empower women — athletes or not — to seek help, explore different paths to parenthood, and make choices that feel right without shame or silence.

And here’s where the innovation in reproductive health steps in. For many, traditional clinical routes can be intimidating, expensive, or simply inaccessible. That’s why at-home options are becoming game-changers.

The Game-Changing Role of At-Home Insemination Kits

If you or someone you know is on this journey, you might be wondering: What alternatives are there beyond endless clinic visits?

Enter companies like MakeAMom. They offer discreet, user-friendly insemination kits designed for different needs — whether you're working with low motility sperm, frozen samples, or have sensitive conditions that make conception challenging. What’s even better? These kits are reusable and cost-effective compared to disposable options, making them a practical choice for many families.

Imagine being able to take control of your fertility journey from the comfort of your home — in privacy, at your own pace, and with a success rate that’s genuinely hopeful (MakeAMom reports an average 67% success among users!).

Breaking Taboos Beyond Sports: What Can We Learn?

Chelsea’s story teaches us that fertility and motherhood should never be hidden parts of anyone’s life narrative. Whether you’re an athlete, a professional, or navigating parenthood in any capacity, your journey deserves respect and support.

Here are some ways we can help break the cycle of silence:

Share stories: Personal experiences create community and reduce isolation.
Promote education: Understanding fertility options helps people make informed choices.
Support innovation: Embrace new technologies and products that put agency back in your hands.
Challenge stigma: Speak openly about fertility challenges to normalize the conversation.

Final Thoughts: What’s Your Story?

Have you faced judgment or silence around your fertility journey? What would it mean to have a ‘mum on the team’—someone who understands, supports, and champions you—whether in sports or life?

This conversation is more than just about making babies; it’s about making space for humanity in every arena. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or playing center court, your story matters.

Curious about how at-home solutions could fit into your journey? Check out MakeAMom’s innovative insemination kits — they’re designed with care, discretion, and success in mind.

Let’s keep this conversation going. What’s your take on fertility and motherhood in high-pressure environments? Drop a comment below or share your story. After all, we’re all on this team together.