Everything you thought you knew about being ‘normal’—especially when it comes to starting a family—might be totally outdated.
I know, that sounds dramatic. But let’s be real: so much of family-building advice still relies on this invisible checklist of “normal” health, “normal” genetics, “normal” outcomes. Then, out of nowhere last week, scientists dropped an absolutely wild news story that shattered the definition of ‘normal’ as we know it.
Did you see the headline? Scientists Just Found a New, Incredibly Rare Blood Type. A French woman in her 60s is literally the only person on Earth to have this newly identified type. Read that again: the only person on Earth. For everyone who’s ever felt like an outlier in their fertility journey, this is your reminder that being “different” is more common than you think.
But what does a rare blood type have to do with your hopes to start or grow a family in 2025?
The Rare, the Unique, and the Realities of Modern Family Building
Let’s unpack this. The new blood type discovery is equal parts awe-inspiring and anxiety-inducing. On one hand, it’s proof that every human body is its own universe. On the other, it definitely raises new “what-ifs” for aspiring parents:
- What if you or your partner have a rare genetic trait you don’t even know about?
- Are ‘unexpected unknowns’ lurking in your DNA, just waiting to pop up when you try to conceive?
- Does “rare” mean “risk”? Or could it be just another form of normal?
If your mind is spinning, trust me, you’re not alone. As I read the article, I couldn’t stop thinking about all the times I’ve heard friends worry about their genetic “fitness” as they navigate fertility tech, donor choices, or at-home insemination.
The Genetics Guessing Game: How Much Can We Really Know?
We live in an age where you can learn your ancestry, health risks, and even nutritional sensitivities with a cheek swab. But as this new blood type story shows, there are still genetic mysteries science is only just unlocking.
So what’s an aspiring parent to do? Drown in genetic anxiety? (No, thanks.)
Here’s the thing: our genes are complex, but our desire for family is universal. Having ‘rare’ traits—whether it’s an unknown blood type, unusual genetics, or unique health conditions—doesn’t put you on the sidelines of parenthood. It just means your path might have a few extra twists.
Modern Solutions for a Not-So-Standard World
The cool part about building a family in 2025? You’re not limited by “standard” medical solutions anymore. There are entire companies dedicated to helping everyone—from same-sex couples, to single parents, to people with rare health conditions—navigate their own unique journeys.
Take at-home insemination kits. Once considered niche, today they’re part of a rapidly growing toolkit for hopeful parents. The team at MakeAMom’s Family Planning Resources understands the reality that not all bodies, backgrounds, or blood types fit the usual script. They offer different insemination kits tailored for people with low sperm motility, sensitivities (like vaginismus), or those using frozen samples. Plus, their products are designed for comfort, privacy, and reusability—because no one’s conception story should feel ‘one-size-fits-all.’
What This Means for You (and Your Future Family)
If you’re reading this and thinking, “What if I have a rare trait I don’t even know about?”, take a breath.
You don’t have to solve every genetic puzzle before you start your family-building journey. In fact, focusing only on what’s “normal” or “common” can leave you feeling isolated, even though most people have something unexpected in their DNA.
Here’s what I’ve learned through my own research and community conversations:
- You’re not alone—no matter how rare your circumstances seem.
- Modern fertility tech is evolving to meet your needs, not the other way around.
- Curiosity, not fear, is your best ally. Explore your options, but don’t let “what-ifs” paralyze you.
Start Your Family, Your Way
It’s a wild time to be building a family—science is rewriting the rulebook, and tech is making options more inclusive than ever. As you take your next steps, remember: ‘normal’ is overrated. Diverse, brave, and a little bit different? That’s where the magic happens.
So—what could your family story look like if you embraced the unexpected?
Let’s talk! Share your experiences, questions, or even your “rare” worries below. The NextGenParenting community (and the whole future of fertility tech) is richer because you’re here.