Leading with Empathy and Determination: Lauren Fleming’s Mission to Support Women from the Pelvic Floor Up

“Be the change you want to see in the world,” famously said by Gandhi, perfectly encapsulates the story behind Lauren Fleming. Hem Support Wear, a pelvic floor support garment,  was born from personal experience. After the birth of Lauren's first child, she was diagnosed with Pelvic Organ Prolapse—something she had never even heard of before. Feeling overwhelmed, unsupported, and frustrated by the lack of solutions that were actually wearable. This frustration turned into determination. Knowing she couldn’t be the only one facing this issue, she set out to create something that could truly help. Lauren shares, “That moment—when I realized this wasn’t just my problem—set me on the path to becoming a founder.”

Growing up with a strong sense of independence and a deep desire to solve problems, Lauren was never content with the status quo. Whether this meant starting a dance team at her middle school because she believed they should have one, or dreaming of becoming the first woman president. This mindset of “why not me?” has followed her throughout life and shaped the woman she is today. When recounting her upbringing, Lauren states, “I faced adversity growing up, which gave me a strong backbone and an even stronger drive to make a difference. I’ve always had a bit of an old soul and a no-nonsense attitude—qualities that have helped me stay grounded as a founder and mom of two. My upbringing taught me to be scrappy, resilient, and unafraid to challenge norms. Whether that meant launching a company during a pandemic or navigating an under-discussed health condition postpartum, I’ve leaned on those early lessons to lead with both grit and heart." A role model who has left a lasting impact and continues to inspire Lauren today is her own Mother. For most of her life before leaving home, she was raised in a single-parent household. Her mother was a female attorney navigating a very male-dominated field, but Lauren quietly watched her own mother hold her own in rooms full of men, again and again. Encouraging her to dream big and instilling a strong belief “that doors can be opened, even if they aren’t already unlocked.” Lauren shares “[...] what I witnessed was someone doing the best she could with the hand she was dealt. That example continues to inspire how I show up in my work, my parenting, and the way I lead.”

With her fiery ambition to bring about change, it makes sense Lauren has always been drawn to mission-driven work. Starting out in sustainability and nonprofits before pivoting into entrepreneurship, Lauren highlights the real “ah-ha” moment came after becoming a mom and realizing how broken the system is when it comes to pelvic health. Today, she has helped nearly 400 women feel physically and emotionally supported with the Hem Support Wear pelvic floor garment. One customer even expressed how they were able to add movement and workouts back into their routine without discomfort. Being able to provide this support for so many women in an under-represented area of women's health is what Lauren credits as her proudest accomplishment so far. 

What began as a personal search for pelvic floor support quickly evolved into building a company to fill a gap that too many women silently navigate. Along the way, Lauren had to immerse herself in an entirely unfamiliar industry, face unexpected manufacturing setbacks, and figure out how to fund a business—all while raising two young kids. One of the toughest moments she recalls, was ending a relationship with a production partner who repeatedly missed deadlines. “I lost time and money, but gained clarity and confidence in trusting my gut.” Lauren overcame most challenges by asking for help, seeking out mentors, and refusing to give up on the women she built it all for.” She sweetly confessed. Creating a company in an under-discussed, often taboo space with a limited budget hasn’t been easy. But knowing that Hem Support Wear is truly making a difference makes every hurdle worth it.

Balancing entrepreneurship with family life is another challenge Lauren approaches with intentionality. For her, balance isn’t about doing everything at once, but about being fully present. She structures her time carefully, carving out dedicated work hours, protecting family time, and keeping a list of small tasks she can tackle in short bursts. “I’ve stopped trying to multitask during moments that matter,” she says. “Like when I have a sick kid at home—that time belongs to them.”

Lauren attributes much of her success to a few pivotal decisions, starting with how she chose to lead. Rather than focusing solely on product, she centered Hem Support Wear around empathy and community. “I focused on creating a space where women felt heard and validated,” she explains. “That trust has fueled everything from product development to marketing.” Equally important was her decision to invest in the right support network. She surrounded herself with people who challenge, encourage, and help her grow. Whether that's trusted independent contractors or the babysitters who step in so she can focus. “And honestly,” she

adds, “even the choice of a life partner. My husband’s support, emotionally and logistically, has been essential. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him showing up for our family and for me in countless ways.” When asked what advice she would give to other women pursuing a similar path, her answer is clear: “Start before you feel ready, and don’t wait for permission. Trust your instincts, even when others don’t see the vision yet. And most importantly, find your people—community is everything when you're building something from the ground up.” 

Lauren stays motivated by staying deeply connected to her “why.” Every message from a customer, every conversation with a pelvic health expert, reinforces the importance of the work she’s doing. “It all reminds me why this matters,” she says. She also finds clarity in the data, using numbers to guide her decisions, measure progress, and stay grounded when the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship hit. “Even on days when things feel slow or I’m wondering, ‘What the heck am I doing?’ the numbers show me I’m building something real, something lasting.” 

What is happening next for Lauren Fleming? As Hem Support Wear continues to grow, Lauren is focused on scaling through partnerships with healthcare providers, refining the garment design, and expanding access to women who need this kind of support. But growth isn’t just happening professionally, it’s personal too. Lately, Lauren has made her own health a top priority. She’s joined Burn Boot Camp and a Pilates studio, and is embracing the physical and mental benefits of consistent movement. “There’s more and more research highlighting the importance of building muscle and strength,” she explains. “That’s a big priority for me.” She’s also been working with a nutritional therapist, staying committed to feeling strong and supported from the inside out. At the heart of her resilience is a simple phrase passed down from her dad: “Patience and perseverance.” Whether she’s navigating the unpredictable path of entrepreneurship or the everyday realities of parenting, she returns to those words often. “They remind me to keep showing up, even when progress feels slow.”

Need support and empowerment during your pelvic health journey, or know someone who does? Check out Hem Support Wear for more information and products!