Digest

Emily Simpson, a Real Housewives of Orange County star, opens up about her fertility journey, which began with a desire to have children after marrying Shane, who already had two daughters. She experienced multiple miscarriages, leading her to seek fertility treatment. After a devastating miscarriage at four months pregnant following IVF, Emily's sister offered to be a surrogate. This decision, while initially surprising, became a clear path forward after her doctor confirmed it was the better option. Emily's sister carried her daughter, Annabelle, and then her twin sons, Luke and Keller. The second pregnancy was more challenging, with Emily experiencing intense anxiety during her sister's pregnancy. Emily shares the emotional and financial aspects of surrogacy, including the legal complexities and the unique bond it created with her sister. She also discusses the challenges of navigating the emotional rollercoaster of fertility struggles and the importance of having a support system.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Guest Introduction

This Chapter introduces the podcast, Baby Steps, and its hosts, Jordana Abraham and Dr. Naomi Bernstein. They welcome Emily Simpson, a guest from the Real Housewives of Orange County, and express their admiration for her on the show and her story.

00:10:31

Emily's Fertility Journey

This Chapter delves into Emily's fertility journey, starting with her desire to have children after marrying Shane, who already had two daughters. She recounts her experiences with multiple miscarriages, leading her to seek fertility treatment. She shares her frustration with her initial fertility doctor and her decision to seek a specialist in Beverly Hills. Emily describes her IVF process, including the emotional toll of losing a pregnancy at four months.

00:21:04

The Surrogacy Decision

This Chapter focuses on the pivotal moment when Emily's sister offered to be a surrogate after Emily's devastating miscarriage. Emily discusses the initial shock and the subsequent decision to move forward with surrogacy. She explains the legal complexities involved in surrogacy, particularly in California, and the detailed contracts that were required. Emily emphasizes the close bond she shares with her sister and how that made the process easier.

00:28:26

The Surrogacy Process

This Chapter details the actual surrogacy process, including the implantation of embryos and the emotional rollercoaster of the pregnancies. Emily shares her sister's experience with the first pregnancy, which resulted in the birth of their daughter, Annabelle. She also discusses the challenges of the second pregnancy, which involved carrying her twin sons, Luke and Keller. Emily describes the anxiety she felt during her sister's pregnancy and the complications that arose, leading to the boys being born prematurely.

00:36:40

Reflecting on the Journey

This Chapter explores Emily's reflections on her fertility journey and the impact it had on her life. She expresses her gratitude for her sister and the miracle of having her children. Emily acknowledges the trauma she experienced during her fertility struggles and the anxiety she felt after her children were born. She shares how her perspective has shifted over time and how she now cherishes her children as little miracles.

00:38:35

Financial and Personal Aspects of Surrogacy

This Chapter delves into the financial and personal aspects of surrogacy. Emily discusses the costs involved, including medical expenses, legal fees, and travel. She also shares her sister's experiences with being pregnant with Emily's children, including her husband's humorous reactions and the overall positive experience.

Keywords

Q&A

• What were some of the challenges Emily faced during her fertility journey?

  Emily faced multiple miscarriages, frustration with her initial fertility doctor, and the emotional toll of IVF. She also experienced a devastating miscarriage at four months pregnant following IVF.

• Why did Emily's sister offer to be a surrogate?

  Emily's sister offered to be a surrogate after witnessing Emily's struggles with multiple miscarriages. She felt compelled to help her sister achieve her dream of having children.

• What were some of the legal complexities involved in Emily's surrogacy?

  Surrogacy in California is a complex process that requires detailed contracts, legal representation for both the intended parents and the surrogate, and approval from a fertility doctor.

• How did Emily's relationship with her sister change after the surrogacy experience?

  Emily believes the surrogacy experience strengthened her bond with her sister. She feels incredibly grateful for her sister's selfless act and the unique connection they share as a result.

• What were some of the emotional challenges Emily faced during her sister's pregnancies?

  Emily experienced intense anxiety during her sister's pregnancies, particularly during the second pregnancy when her twin sons were born prematurely. She felt a constant fear of losing her children due to the trauma of her previous miscarriages.

• What are some of the financial considerations involved in surrogacy?

  Surrogacy can be expensive, involving medical expenses, legal fees, travel costs, and potential compensation for the surrogate. Emily covered her sister's medical expenses and other costs during the first pregnancy, but paid her sister directly for the second pregnancy.

• How did Emily's sister's friends and family react to her being pregnant with Emily's children?

  Emily's sister's friends and family were generally supportive, but her husband found it humorous to tell people that she was pregnant with someone else's baby.

• How has Emily's perspective on her fertility journey changed over time?

  Emily now looks at her children as miracles and is incredibly grateful for her sister's role in their lives. While she still acknowledges the trauma she experienced, she has found peace and joy in her family.

Show Notes