After six years of secondary infertility and finally reaching the point of giving up, Rachel shares the incredible story of her natural pregnancy at age 40. Explore the emotional journey of surrendering the struggle only to find that your miracle was waiting just around the corner.
On episode 9, after six years of trying to expand her family, Rachel found herself at a crossroads that many in the community will recognize. In this episode, she opens up about the grueling emotional toll of secondary infertility and the heavy decision to finally stop the pursuit of pregnancy. Just as she began to process the idea of moving forward, life offered a miraculous surprise: a natural pregnancy at age 40.
This conversation dives deep into the mindset shifts that occur when you reach your breaking point and the power of surrendering to the journey. Rachel shares the specific hurdles she faced during her six-year wait and offers heartfelt encouragement for anyone navigating advanced maternal age or the unique heartbreak of secondary infertility. Discover how letting go opened the door to a new chapter of motherhood and why hope is never truly off the table.
About the Guest
Rachel is a teacher from Pennsylvania who is also a dedicated runner. Married with an eight-year-old son, she found herself facing a surprising turn of events while training for a 10K. Despite believing pregnancy was impossible after six years of secondary infertility, she discovered she was expecting again at age 40, a realization that initially came while she was out for a run.
In her professional life, Rachel brings her passion for education to the classroom, while her personal time is often spent hitting the pavement as she continues to embrace her love for running. She is known for her refreshingly honest perspective on the emotional complexities of an unplanned pregnancy over 40 and the challenge of adjusting her carefully laid plans to make room for a new miracle.
Connect with Rachel:
Instagram: @rachrunsnteaches
Key Topics
The Struggle with Secondary Infertility: Rachel shares the unique emotional and physical toll of trying to conceive a second child for six years after her first child was born.
- The 10K Training and Surprise Discovery: As an avid runner and teacher, Rachel was in the middle of training for a 10K race when she unexpectedly discovered she was pregnant.
- The “Turning Point” of Giving Up: A central theme is the transition from the grueling pursuit of pregnancy to the moment Rachel decided to stop trying and find peace, only to conceive naturally shortly after.
- Navigating Advanced Maternal Age: The episode explores the mindset shifts required when facing “advanced maternal age” labels and the challenge of adjusting long-term plans for a new miracle later in life.
- The Reality of an Unplanned Pregnancy at 40: Rachel provides a refreshingly honest look at the shock and complex emotions that come with an unplanned pregnancy when you believed it was no longer possible.
- Words of Hope for the Community: The conversation offers encouragement and a relatable perspective for other women in their 40s who may feel isolated in their fertility struggles.
Resources & Links
Note: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. I only recommend products our guests truly love!
Instagram: Follow Over 40 Fabulous and Pregnant
YouTube: Watch Episodes HERE
Recommended Products: Belly Butter
Shop More: See ALL products recommended by our guests!
Support the Podcast: Donate to the Podcast
Community: Join the Over 40 Fabulous Facebook Group