It is time we had a serious conversation about the way society views marriage and childbearing.
Procreation should not be presented as the only purpose or measure of a successful marriage. Not every couple will have children, and not everyone wants children. Yet, because of the enormous pressure society places on couples, particularly women, many women are subjected to insults, shame, rejection, emotional abuse and unbearable pressure simply because they have not conceived.
Some marriages have become deeply troubled because of this mentality. Some women have suffered tremendously, while others have reportedly lost their lives under the weight of stigma and pressure.
Marriage should be about love, companionship, partnership, understanding, friendship and building a meaningful life together. Children can be a beautiful part of that journey, but they should not be the yardstick for determining a woman’s worth or the success of a marriage.
Even within the Bible, we can point to people whose impact on humanity was not defined by having children. Apostle Paul, for example, devoted his life to his faith and left teachings that continue to influence millions of people around the world.
So why do we continue to measure a woman’s value by her ability to conceive?
It is time for women to speak up and create greater awareness. It is time for families, religious institutions, communities and society at large to rethink beliefs and practices that contribute to the humiliation and abuse of women experiencing infertility.
There is also a need for stronger laws and social protections against the humiliation, discrimination and abuse of women because of infertility.
Her value lies in her humanity, character, talents, wisdom, love, contributions and the lives she touches.
We must stop making women feel incomplete simply because they have not given birth.
Marriage is about building a life together, not simply producing children.
It is time to break the stigma.
It is time to change the narrative.
It is time to let women breathe, thrive and discover the greatness within them.
