What if what you thought were 'normal' pregnancy symptoms were something far more serious?
It’s every hopeful parent’s dream: you notice changes in your body, you hope those weird cramps or digestive issues mean you’re on your way to that long-awaited positive test. But what if those same symptoms are a sign of something you never imagined?
That question haunted me as I read Jenna Scott’s story—one that’s made waves in 2025 for all the right (and gut-wrenching) reasons. In a widely-shared article on Business Insider, Jenna, a 31-year-old woman bursting with health and dreams of family, was met with dismissals and misdiagnoses. Month after month, her abdominal pain and fatigue were chalked up to “normal pregnancy symptoms” or blamed on IBS. It took a year before anyone realized it was stage 4 colon cancer.
Let that sink in.
When ‘Normal’ Isn’t Normal: The Invisible Red Flags
It’s easy to trust the experts—we want to believe that doctors and nurses will spot the difference between ordinary and ominous signs. But Jenna’s experience is a sobering reminder that our bodies are our best advocates, and sometimes even the pros get it wrong.
If you’re trying to conceive, every twinge can feel loaded with meaning. Is this the start of morning sickness, or something else? Are you just extra tired—or is your body asking for help?
There’s a fine line between hope and vigilance. So how do you stay positive on your path to parenthood, while also protecting your health?
3 Truths Every Aspiring Parent Needs to Hear
1. Self-Advocacy Isn’t Optional—It’s Critical
Jenna’s story challenges the idea that “doctor knows best” is always true. If you’re brushed off or your concerns aren’t seriously considered, don’t give up. Push for further tests. Get a second (or third) opinion.
2. Know Your Body—And Trust Your Gut
You’re the world’s leading expert on you. When a symptom feels “off”—lasting longer than usual, worsening, or accompanied by new issues—don’t ignore it. Write it down. Bring notes to appointments. Don’t let anyone dismiss your intuition.
3. ‘Trying to Conceive’ Isn’t a Diagnosis
Yes, hormone swings, stress, and lifestyle changes can do wild things to your system. But that doesn’t mean everything is explainable by baby fever. Abdominal pain that doesn’t fade? Unusual bleeding? Extreme fatigue? These deserve answers.
The Fertility Journey is Hard Enough—Don’t Go It Alone
The pursuit of parenthood in 2025 is already filled with uncertainty—fertility rates are top of mind, and the pressure to “get it right” is real. Community is your secret weapon. Finding a support group, whether virtual on Nestful or in-person, can help you validate your experiences and learn what’s normal for you versus what’s a red flag.
And when it comes to home insemination or alternative conception paths, you deserve resources that prioritize your whole health, not just your reproductive hopes.
Wellness Tools That Empower—Not Replace—Your Intuition
One thing that caught my eye: More people are turning to at-home insemination kits not just for privacy and convenience, but for ownership of their journey. Companies like MakeAMom’s resource-rich site offer detailed guides, client stories, and even diagnostic tips that go beyond the basics. Their emphasis on reusable, discreet, and sensitive solutions means you can track changes in your cycle and body—all while staying informed about what’s typical and when you should seek more help.
But—these tools are helpers, not substitutes for professional care.
The Courage to Ask “What If?”
Jenna Scott’s ordeal is a rallying cry: Don’t let anyone tell you your worries are “just” pregnancy symptoms. Advocate loudly. Seek clarity, and don’t fall for the myth that all new aches, pains, or changes are part of the baby-making package.
If something feels wrong, investigate.
As you move forward—charting cycles, using home kits, asking questions—remember: The power to protect your future family starts with protecting yourself, right now.
So, here’s my question for you: What’s one time you trusted your intuition—and it paid off? Or, when do you wish you’d pushed harder for answers? Share your story in the comments. Let’s lift each other up, one honest conversation at a time.
Stay safe, stay hopeful, and don’t be afraid to ask “What if?”—because your journey to parenthood deserves nothing less.