Choosing Solo Motherhood at 38: Carly’s Inspiring Story of Resilience, Support, and Finding Joy with Baby Lennon

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha sits down with Carly, a solo mum who shares her journey to motherhood. Carly opens up about navigating both IUI and IVF, the challenges of infertility, and the importance of having a supportive family by her side. She also reflects on her first months as a mum to Lennon and the joy of creating a family on her own terms. This episode is packed with insights on resilience, family support, and what it means to be a solo mum by choice.

From Making the Decision to Parenthood: Billie’s Story of Solo Motherhood and Embracing Life with Baby Luna

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Billie shares her journey to becoming a solo mum by choice. After setting milestones for herself and navigating both IUI and IVF, Billie welcomed her daughter, Luna, into the world. She discusses the decision-making process, her supportive family, and the joys and challenges of parenting on her own. This episode offers insights into the realities of solo motherhood, the importance of family support, and Billie's reflections on building a family filled with love and intention

From IVF success during COVID to life-saving decisions for her son, Jed, Meagan shares her powerful story of love, strength, and resilience.

In this deeply moving episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Meagan shares her heartfelt journey to solo motherhood with her son, Jed. The idea was first sparked by her late mother’s lighthearted comment, but it wasn’t until age 36 that Meagan decided to make her dream of motherhood a reality.

Navigating IVF during the COVID-19 lockdown, Meagan faced unexpected challenges but was lucky enough to achieve success on her first fresh transfer. What followed was a smooth pregnancy, but her journey took an emotional turn when Jed was diagnosed with craniosynostosis, a rare condition requiring major skull surgery at just 12 months old.

Through her story, Meagan shares the power of trusting maternal instincts, advocating for her son, and embracing life as a solo mum—building strength, resilience, and a deep bond with her little boy.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding to pursue solo motherhood after years of dating disappointments.

• Achieving IVF success on her first fresh embryo transfer at age 37.

• Managing pregnancy and birth during COVID lockdowns, including an unexpected cesarean.

• Navigating Jed’s diagnosis of craniosynostosis and the emotional toll of his skull surgery.

• Embracing the joys and challenges of solo parenting, from toddler cuddles to building a new life near family.

From foster parent training to IVF success during COVID, Jac shares her story of courage, resilience, and motherhood.

In this inspiring episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Jac shares her journey to solo motherhood and her deep love for her son, Fletcher. Initially considering fostering, Jac’s path shifted when she realised how much she longed for her own child. Her story highlights the unique challenges of navigating fertility treatment during COVID, including failed IUI cycles, overstimulation during IVF, and a long 42-week pregnancy that ended in a whirlwind induction and delivery.

Jac also candidly discusses the emotional weight of choosing a sperm donor, the importance of maternal instincts, and how motherhood has exceeded her expectations in the most beautiful ways. Through it all, she shares valuable insights about trusting the process, creating routines, and cherishing every precious moment.

Key Takeaways:

• How foster care training sparked her decision to pursue solo motherhood.

• Navigating IUI, overstimulation, and a successful frozen embryo transfer.

• Managing a challenging 42-week pregnancy with daily sickness and an unexpected induction.

• Choosing a donor based on kindness and openness to future contact.

• Balancing work, boundaries, and life as a solo mum with her son, Fletcher.

From IVF setbacks to a life-saving early birth, Haylee shares her emotional journey to motherhood with her daughter, Neve.

In this powerful and emotional episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Haylee shares her extraordinary journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her daughter, Neve. Haylee opens up about the challenges she faced: navigating IVF, coping with miscarriage, and pushing through setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The story takes a dramatic turn as Haylee details her pregnancy complications, including major placenta previa, high blood pressure, and reduced movements. At just 33 weeks, Haylee’s instincts and courage saved Neve’s life, leading to an emergency C-section and an extended NICU stay.

Haylee’s story is a testament to the power of maternal instinct, resilience, and love. Her openness about postpartum anxiety, navigating life as a solo mum, and finding joy amidst the chaos will inspire anyone considering the solo motherhood path.

Key Takeaways:

• Facing multiple IVF challenges, including miscarriage and chemical pregnancies.

• Navigating pregnancy complications: major placenta previa, high blood pressure, and reduced fetal movements.

• How Haylee’s instincts saved Neve’s life and led to an emergency early birth at 33 weeks.

• The emotional journey of NICU and the challenges of bringing home a premature baby.

• Overcoming postnatal anxiety and the importance of leaning on family for support

From deciding to go solo to navigating IVF across state borders, Sal shares her journey to motherhood with her two children, Edie and Hendrix.

In this heartfelt episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Sal shares her inspiring and candid journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her two children, Edie and Hendrix. Growing up believing motherhood required a man, Sal never saw children in her future until her perspective shifted.

Sal dives into her unique experience of navigating fertility treatment across state borders, balancing financial pressures, and dealing with her PCOS diagnosis. She also opens up about managing pregnancy complications, a postpartum hemorrhage, and embracing the chaos of solo motherhood—all while leaning into her community for support. Sal’s practical approach to life, humour, and unwavering determination shine through as she reflects on the family she’s created and the future she envisions for her kids.

Key Takeaways:

• Shifting perspectives on motherhood and realising it was possible without Prince Charming.

• Navigating IVF in Adelaide while living in Melbourne to access affordable treatment.

• Dealing with PCOS, a low ovarian response, and a challenging egg retrieval process.

• The emotional and physical challenges of postpartum recovery and early motherhood.

• Creating connections with donor siblings and building her family’s village.

How a dream, determination, and a little pixie dust led Alycia to motherhood through IUI with her daughter, Emmeline.

In this uplifting episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Alycia shares how a dream completely transformed her perspective on motherhood and led her to pursue solo motherhood by choice. Having spent most of her 20s and early 30s convinced she didn’t want children, Alycia’s life took a surprising turn after an unforgettable dream planted the seed for her future family.

Alycia dives into the practicalities of choosing a donor, navigating the IUI process, and managing the unexpected emotions of early pregnancy—all while balancing life in country WA. She shares how her background as an egg donor helped her confidently approach the process and why trusting herself was key to her journey. Her story is filled with humour, wisdom, and heartfelt reflections on life with her daughter, Emmeline, who has “found her voice” in the most adorable way.

Key Takeaways:

• Transitioning from not wanting children to deciding to pursue solo motherhood at 35.

• Navigating the donor sperm process and the realities of rural fertility treatment in Western Australia.

• Getting pregnant on the first IUI attempt and dealing with pregnancy complications, including migraines and pelvic pain.

• Balancing the unexpected joy and challenges of early solo parenting.

• The importance of having strong support systems and solid foundations in place before starting the journey.

How Bess followed her heart, met her deadlines, and created a beautiful family with her two daughters, Sadie and Nina.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Bess shares her inspiring journey to solo motherhood with her daughters, Sadie and Nina. With a clear vision and a self-imposed timeline, Bess knew she wanted to pursue motherhood by age 30 if Prince Charming hadn’t come along.

Her story explores the success of her first IUI, the challenges of miscarriage, and the emotional ups and downs of trying for her second child through IVF. Bess speaks candidly about her experience navigating Tasmania’s donor system, connecting with other solo mums by choice, and eventually finding donor siblings for her daughters.

From navigating pregnancies with morning sickness to creating strong connections within her support network, Bess’ story highlights the importance of community, determination, and resilience. Her joy and gratitude for the life she’s created with her daughters shine through every step of her journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Setting a clear timeline to pursue solo motherhood and sticking to it.

• Navigating Tasmania’s local donor system and securing the same donor for siblings.

• Overcoming miscarriage and finding hope in a second IUI success.

• Transitioning to IVF and balancing the challenges of pregnancy, work, and finances.

• Building connections with donor siblings and a thriving solo mum community in Tasmania.

How Celeste turned a Hollywood idea into her reality, navigating IVF, sibling dreams, and solo parenting challenges.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Celeste shares her heartfelt and sometimes humorous journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her two boys, Henry and Charlie. Inspired by a movie (yes, The Back-Up Plan), Celeste decided to pursue motherhood in her early 30s after realising time was passing by without Prince Charming.

From navigating long sperm donor waitlists and fertility processes to managing unexpected health challenges, Celeste’s story highlights the realities of IVF, the desire for siblings, and the highs and lows of solo parenting. With candid reflections on her two very different sons and her advice on choosing clinics and specialists, Celeste provides valuable insights for anyone considering the solo motherhood path. Her story is one of determination, resilience, and finding humour in the chaos of creating her perfect family.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding to pursue solo motherhood after a lightbulb moment watching The Back-Up Plan.

• Navigating long donor waitlists and unexpected delays.

• Managing IVF challenges, including multiple transfers, polyps, and NK cell issues.

• The highs and lows of pregnancy, birth, and parenting with a wide age gap between siblings.

• Valuable advice on selecting clinics, advocating for yourself, and preparing for unexpected costs.

How Nikeesha raced against time, embraced IVF, and navigated health challenges to welcome her daughter, Willa.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Nikeesha shares her remarkable journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her daughter, Willa. At just 27, a diagnosis related to her rare form of arthritis meant her window to carry a child was rapidly closing. Determined not to miss out on motherhood, Nikeesha embarked on a whirlwind IVF journey that took just three months from decision to pregnancy.

She candidly discusses the challenges of navigating fertility treatments, the emotional strain of a rushed process, and the physical toll of pregnancy with her condition. Nikeesha also touches on the realities of a traumatic birth during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the lack of postpartum support, and how her unwavering resilience—and the support of her dad—helped her thrive as a solo mum. Her story is one of strength, adaptability, and boundless love for her daughter, Willa.

Key Takeaways:

• Making a swift decision to pursue solo motherhood due to a health diagnosis.

• Navigating IVF at 27 and dealing with age-related assumptions from medical professionals.

• Choosing a donor and experiencing a high-risk pregnancy.

• Coping with a traumatic birth and postpartum challenges during the pandemic.

• The importance of building a support network and prioritising self-care.

How Maureen broke barriers, navigated fertility laws, and built a beautiful family on her own terms.

In this inspiring episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Maureen shares her trailblazing journey to solo motherhood. When Maureen first decided to become a solo mum, using donor sperm was illegal for single women in Victoria. Determined to follow her dream, she navigated the legal loopholes, underwent IVF, and welcomed her daughter, Lana, and later her son, Flynn.

Maureen candidly discusses the challenges of making the decision, overcoming societal expectations, and the emotional toll of miscarriages. Her journey highlights the importance of resilience, self-advocacy, and building a support network—even when it comes from unexpected places. Maureen’s story is filled with humour, wisdom, and a powerful reminder that solo motherhood is not about doing it alone, but about creating a family in your own way.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding to pursue solo motherhood despite societal and legal barriers.

• Navigating IVF in a time when it was illegal for single women in Victoria.

• Choosing a donor and forming a unique connection with him years later.

• Coping with miscarriages and finding the strength to try again.

• Building an unexpected support network that helped her through tough times.

How Jane overcame IVF setbacks, found hope with a known donor, and welcomed her daughter, Isabel.

In this deeply personal episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Jane shares her inspiring journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her daughter, Isabel. After years of knowing she wanted children but not finding the right relationship, Jane decided to pursue motherhood on her own terms. Her path included multiple rounds of IVF, the devastation of a miscarriage, and an unexpected yet perfect arrangement with a known donor—her friend’s brother.

Jane’s story highlights her unwavering determination to become a mum, the challenges of fertility treatments, and the beautiful bond she’s built with her daughter, her donor, and the extended donor family. Her candid discussion about navigating donor agreements, advocating for herself through setbacks, and creating a loving environment for Isabel is both heartfelt and empowering.

Key Takeaways:

• Making the decision to pursue solo motherhood in her late 30s.

• Navigating IVF, low AMH reserves, and the emotional toll of failed cycles.

• Experiencing a miscarriage and finding hope in the process.

• Choosing a known donor and managing expectations around involvement.

• Building a supportive village for Isabel with family, friends, and her donor's family.

How Nat overcame a lifetime of endometriosis, fertility challenges, and heartbreak to welcome her two beautiful boys.

⚠️ Trigger Warning - This episode discusses topics such as ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy complications, and medical trauma. Please take care while listening.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Nat takes us on a deeply personal journey through a lifetime of challenges with endometriosis, fertility struggles, and heartbreak. Diagnosed with a 3.5kg ovarian mass as a teenager, Nat spent years battling surgeries, adhesions, and blocked fallopian tubes. After failed relationships and a traumatic ectopic pregnancy during IVF, Nat shares how she found the strength to push forward, advocating for herself and her dream of motherhood.

Nat’s story explores the emotional rollercoaster of heterotopic pregnancy, complex fertility treatments, and the eventual joy of welcoming her two boys, Harry and Hudson, into the world. She highlights the importance of choosing the right specialists, financial preparation, and cherishing every moment of motherhood.

For anyone facing fertility challenges or considering solo motherhood, Nat’s journey offers inspiration, hope, and a reminder that miracles can happen—even against the odds.

Key Takeaways:

• Living with endometriosis and its impact on fertility from a young age.

• Facing blocked fallopian tubes, surgeries, and repeated IVF cycles.

• The emotional and physical toll of heterotopic pregnancy and ectopic loss.

• Successfully conceiving her two sons, Harry and Hudson, through IVF.

• Tips for advocating for yourself in fertility treatments and financial planning.

How Sarah embraced solo motherhood, navigated IVF, and found love again while raising her son, Ollie.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Sarah shares her incredible journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her son, Ollie. After years of travel and a realization in her mid-30s, Sarah decided she wasn’t going to wait for Prince Charming to pursue her dream of motherhood. Her path took her through IVF, a successful first transfer, and a smooth pregnancy. Sarah opens up about navigating solo parenting during Melbourne’s strict COVID-19 lockdowns and how her supportive family helped her through the early days. She also talks about the joy of finding a partner when she least expected it, proving that love can come at any time. Sarah’s story is one of independence, resilience, and the deep love she has for her son.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding on solo motherhood after her early 30s milestone.

• The challenges of selecting a donor and choosing IVF over IUI.

• Experiencing a successful IVF transfer on the first attempt.

• Navigating solo parenting during Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdowns.

• Finding love after becoming a solo mum and balancing a new relationship.

A Mother’s Love, Lasting Legacy, and Remy: Karly’s Brave Journey to Solo Motherhood

⚠️ Trigger Warning - This episode contains discussions about terminal illness and loss. It may be emotionally challenging for some listeners. Please take care while listening.

In this heartfelt episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Karly shares her journey to solo motherhood with her daughter, Remy. From giving herself milestone deadlines for motherhood to navigating multiple rounds of IUI, Karly candidly talks about her resilience and determination. She describes the challenges of fertility treatments, discovering a cervical blockage, and the joy of finally conceiving on her fourth attempt. Karly’s journey also touches on the realities of solo parenting, the importance of building a supportive village, and the deep bond she shares with her daughter. With her family’s unwavering support and her own strength, Karly created a life filled with love and purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding on solo motherhood after missed relationship milestones.

• Navigating four rounds of IUI and overcoming a cervical blockage.

• Experiencing a fast labour and the joy of a midwife-assisted delivery.

• The importance of building a support network and accepting help.

• Facing life’s challenges with resilience, including a terminal diagnosis.

Honouring Karly’s Legacy

It was an honour and a privilege to record Karly’s story—a story filled with courage, determination, and boundless love for her much-longed-for daughter, Remy. Karly’s strength and resilience inspired all who knew her, and she leaves behind a powerful legacy of hope and joy. Tragically, Karly passed away shortly after this episode was released, just before her daughter’s 5th birthday. This episode stands as a testament to her incredible journey and the deep love she had for Remy and her family.

How Camilla overcame heartbreak, fertility challenges, and a fast labour to welcome her son, Edward.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Camilla shares her inspiring journey to solo motherhood. After years of dating in her 20s and 30s, she decided to freeze her eggs at 37 as an insurance policy. A short, controlling relationship led to an unplanned pregnancy and a difficult decision to not proceed. Knowing time was ticking, she began IVF and welcomed her son, Edward, after a whirlwind two-hour labour. Camilla discusses the complexities of choosing a donor, dealing with pregnancy challenges, and reaching out to her donor during the pandemic. Her story highlights resilience, family support, and the joy of creating her family on her own terms.

Key Takeaways:

• Freezing eggs at 37 as an insurance policy for future motherhood.

• Ending a controlling relationship and making a difficult decision about an unplanned pregnancy.

• Pursuing IVF, selecting a donor, and experiencing a fast two-hour labour.

• Managing a traumatic birth and postnatal complications.

• Reaching out to her donor and forming an email-based connection.

How Hannah navigated egg freezing, IVF, a traumatic birth, and COVID lockdowns to welcome her daughter, Stevie.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Hannah shares her journey to becoming a solo mum by choice. A nanny by profession, Hannah made the proactive decision to freeze her eggs in her early 30s after recognising the uncertainty of finding a partner. After enduring setbacks, including a redundancy just after purchasing donor sperm, she pushed ahead with IVF and conceived on her first embryo transfer. Hannah opens up about a traumatic birth experience involving induction, a retained placenta, and a challenging recovery, all coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the hurdles, Hannah's resilience, the support of her family, and the joy of raising her daughter, Stevie, shine through.

Key Takeaways:

• Egg freezing as a proactive step in her early 30s.

• Choosing an international donor and navigating IVF.

• A traumatic birth with induction, epidural complications, and a retained placenta.

• Early motherhood during the COVID-19 pandemic and finding support through her family.

• Building connections with donor siblings worldwide.

How Ebony navigated IVF clinics, known donors, and international travel to welcome her daughter, Lyla.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Ebony takes us through her remarkable journey to becoming a solo mum by choice. From freezing her eggs in London after a tough breakup to dealing with donor limits in the UK, Ebony’s quest for motherhood took her across Europe to Denmark. After multiple rounds of IVF, setbacks, and an emotional rollercoaster of using known donors, Ebony’s resilience ultimately led to the birth of her daughter, Lyla. Her story includes navigating blocked fallopian tubes, wildfires in California, and the pandemic. Through it all, Ebony's determination, humour, and problem-solving skills shine brightly.

Key Takeaways:

• Freezing eggs at 36 and deciding to pursue solo motherhood at 39.

• Facing UK donor limits and choosing a clinic in Denmark.

• The complexities of using known donors and donor selection processes.

• Navigating multiple IVF rounds, blocked fallopian tubes, and miscarriages.

• Finding joy, healing, and strength in finally welcoming her daughter, Lyla.

How Jen overcame grief, IVF, and a fast decision to welcome her daughter, Beatrice.

In this emotional episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Jen shares her journey to becoming a solo mum by choice. After freezing her eggs at 36 and enduring the loss of her mum to breast cancer, Jen decided not to wait any longer to pursue motherhood. Navigating grief, guilt, and societal expectations, she chose a donor and embarked on IVF. Her mum’s support throughout the journey gave her strength, and despite the emotional turmoil, Jen welcomed her daughter, Beatrice. Jen’s story highlights the complexity of grief, the joy of solo motherhood, and the importance of community and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• Freezing eggs at 36 and the decision to pursue solo motherhood later.

• Facing societal expectations and feelings of guilt and grief.

• Selecting a donor and navigating IVF during personal loss.

• Managing a pregnancy while coping with her mother’s terminal illness.

• Finding joy, strength, and healing in solo motherhood.

How Danni faced fertility challenges, IVF, and a quick decision to welcome her daughter, Sophia.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Danni shares her straightforward yet courageous journey to solo motherhood. After years of dating without success and discovering she had a low egg reserve, Danni made the decision to pursue solo motherhood at 31. She navigated two unsuccessful IUIs before moving to IVF, overcoming fears and misconceptions about the process. With her family’s unwavering support and the right clinic, Danni’s perseverance led to the birth of her daughter, Sophia. She opens up about a difficult pregnancy, a fast labour, and the challenges of balancing solo motherhood with running her own business. Danni’s story is one of determination, resilience, and the joy of building a life on her own terms.

Key Takeaways:

• Discovering a low AMH result and making a quick decision to pursue solo motherhood.

• The challenges and disappointment of failed IUIs and switching to IVF.

• Managing a tough pregnancy with hyperemesis and SPD.

• A rapid labour experience and postpartum recovery.

• Balancing motherhood with running a successful salon business.