Would You Post Your Pregnancy Test Results Online?
Women are uploading their "big reveal" on the internet. Sweet, or too much information?
Amanda Stumbaugh stands in her bathroom in Carson City, Nevada, recording a video of herself on her iPhone. "I've taken a pregnancy test," she announces. "We're counting down three minutes." As a timer ticks, the 23-year-old chats about ovulation and breast pain. Finally, the moment of truth: She looks at the Clearblue digital test stick. "Oh, my freaking God," she says, her eyes tearing, "I'm pregnant." You can see the video for yourself on Stumbaugh's YouTube channel: Puddinpop1987.
Welcome to the latest way to overshare.
Stumbaugh is one of a growing number of women who post recordings of their pregnancy-test results on YouTube. These so-called WombTube videos show women's real reactions to the test results, ranging from tears of joy to crushing disappointment.
WombTubers generally identify themselves as members of the trying-to-conceive community. Thirty-year-old Kaity Ross, who posted her positive results on her YouTube channel, katulka2, explains: "You have all these emotions, excitement, and anticipation. It's helpful to be able to share intimate details with people who are pregnant or trying to conceive and know where you are coming from." In her case, the women of WombTube learned of her pregnancy before her real-world family did.
While watching cups of pee, digital egg-timers, and pink lines might not sound so entertaining, the suspense of these broadcasts can be addictive. The most popular videos boast about 100,000 views. "It's amazing how many people can't get enough of seeing what's going on with you," says Stumbaugh, whose video has garnered about 1,800 views. "I think they like watching for the thrill, the anticipation of seeing if someone's gonna get their dreams or not."
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
-
Prince Andrew's Friends Claims the Royal Could "Do a Harry and Leave" the U.K.
"He can’t do anything here anymore, he can’t leave the house, he can’t do any business."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Julia Stiles attends The Gothams 34th Annual Film Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on December 02, 2024 in New York City.
We already 'Wish You Were Here' with your directorial debut, Julia! 'Wish You Were Here' will mark Julia Stiles' directorial debut (and she also wrote the script)!
By Alicia Lutes Published
-
Why Swifites Are Convinced Taylor Swift Is Going to Be on the Kelce Brothers’ Podcast in January
"We’ve been waiting on this one for a long time," Jason said when teasing a "very special" guest for the January 2 episode.
By Kayleigh Roberts Published
-
Of Murder and Motherhood
Their children are gone but these women are united in their fight for justice and answers.
By Katya Cengel Published
-
I Narrowly Avoided Becoming Another Black Maternity Statistic
In an excerpt from her new memoir, 'Black American Refugee,' Tiffanie Drayton writes about how systemic racism bled into her own pregnancy.
By Tiffanie Drayton Published
-
60 Gifts for Mom She'll Truly Love
From creature comforts to luxe indulgences.
By Sara Holzman Published
-
'Skye Falling' Deserves a Spot on Your Summer Reading List
In July, Marie Claire read Mia McKenzie's 'Skye Falling.' See what the #ReadWithMC community thought about the book here.
By Marie Claire Published
-
What to Know About Adria Biles, Simone Biles' Sister and Biggest Supporter
Here's what to know about the Team U.S.A. gymnast's supportive, lookalike sis.
By Katherine J. Igoe Last updated
-
Mel Is Pregnant In 'Virgin River' — So What Happens Now?
"I don't know if you're the father," Mel told Jack in the season finale.
By The Editors Published
-
Melissa Moore's 'Life After Happy Face' Podcast Looks at Killers Through New Eyes
The true crime expert and daughter of the Happy Face Killer opens up to Marie Claire about destigmatizing the label of 'criminal's kid.'
By Maria Ricapito Published
-
Won't Call the Midwife
With high rates of maternal mortality and coercion in hospital settings, more American women are exploring childbirth without any medical assistance whatsoever. The Free Birth Society provides community, resources, and validation for these convention buckers. But experts warn that choice comes at the expense of safety.
By Rebecca Grant Published