02. After undergoing two grueling rounds of IVF to conceive her second child, Stephanie assumed her days of natural pregnancy were far behind her. Little did she know that a 40th birthday and what she thought was “hormonal bloating” would actually turn out to be a 22-week surprise that changed everything.
On episode 2, Stephanie shares her remarkable story of experiencing a surprise pregnancy right as she turned 40. After the birth of her second child via IVF, Stephanie navigated the complexities of fertility treatments and the emotional landscape of “Advanced Maternal Age,” only to find herself shocked by a natural conception. Her journey highlights the unpredictable nature of fertility and the sheer surprise of discovering a third pregnancy when she least expected it.
Stephanie’s narrative offers a refreshingly honest look at the transition from clinical fertility interventions to an unexpected spontaneous pregnancy. Throughout their conversation, Stephanie dives into the practical and emotional shifts of preparing for a third child at 40, sharing the wisdom she gained from both her IVF experience and her surprise journey. This episode serves as a powerful reminder for any woman navigating mid-life fertility that hope and surprises are always possible, providing both inspiration and relatable insights for the road to motherhood.
About the Guest
Stefanie Collier is a mom of three and a consultant for Rodan + Fields based in Prosper, Texas. After a seven-month journey to her first child and two rounds of IVF to welcome her second, she became an advocate for the “never say never” mindset when she unexpectedly conceived her third child naturally at age 40. Known for her relaxed approach to her third pregnancy and her love for “birthday cake” celebrations in the delivery room, Stefanie shares her story to inspire other women to find joy and peace in the unpredictable journey of mid-life motherhood.
Connect with Stefanie:
- Instagram: @stefaniejonescollier
Key Topics
- The IVF to Spontaneous Transition: Moving from high-intervention fertility treatments to the shock of a natural conception at 40.
- Cryptic Pregnancy at 40: Navigating the realization that symptoms like fatigue and bloating were actually signs of being nearly 5 months pregnant.
- Navigating Medical “Red Tape”: Overcoming the stress of finding a doctor when you discover a pregnancy past the standard 16-to-18-week intake window.
- Comparing Motherhood Chapters: The difference between a high-stress, “by-the-book” pregnancy in her 30s versus a more relaxed, spontaneous experience at 40.
- Overcoming Bell’s Palsy: Stephanie shares her terrifying experience with Bell’s Palsy during her second pregnancy and how she navigated induction.
- Practical Prep for Baby #3: Managing the logistics of breastfeeding goals, checking car seat expirations, and celebrating with “birthday cake” in the delivery room.
Resources & Links
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