Ep 114: Journey to Solo Motherhood Through IVF with Lauren Gervasoni

In this powerful episode, Lauren shares her unexpected path to becoming a solo mom through IVF.

What she anticipated would be a straightforward process became significantly more complex when genetic testing revealed she's a carrier for a serious condition, requiring full IVF with genetic embryo selection rather than the simpler IUI procedure she'd planned.

Key Topics Discussed

The Reality of Solo Motherhood Planning

Making the decision to become a solo parent after her health crisis
Shifting from expectations of an easy conception to navigating complex medical procedures
Managing multiple health challenges simultaneously (cardiac issues and fertility treatment)

Emotional Regulation Tools

The "bag of worries" concept from children's therapy applied to adult anxiety
Distinguishing between controllable and uncontrollable worries
Permission to feel difficult emotions without shame or guilt
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques for reframing negative thoughts

Building Your Support Network

Importance of joining fertility support groups and solo mom communities
Finding the right fertility specialist who matches your communication style
Surrounding yourself with people who can celebrate wins and support challenges

Practical Strategies for the Waiting Periods

Creating organization systems (IVF folders, question lists for specific appointments)
Setting realistic expectations for test results and follow-up timelines
Filling waiting periods with meaningful activities and self-care
The importance of one-step-at-a-time thinking rather than overwhelming yourself

Shifting Perspective

Reframing "I have to do this" into "I get to do this"
Recognizing the lifelong skills gained through fertility challenges
Finding daily positives even on difficult days
Understanding that healing and growth take consistent practice

Key Takeaways

You don't have to navigate this alone - Support groups and community connections are essential for emotional wellbeing during fertility journeys
Find the right medical team - Your fertility specialist should make you feel heard, supported, and empowered, not anxious or dismissed
Practice emotional regulation - The tools that work for managing stress apply whether you're going through fertility treatment or other life challenges
Control what you can, release what you can't - Identify which worries are actionable and which need to be surrendered to specialists or the universe
Mental health matters as much as physical health - Prioritizing psychological wellbeing isn't optional during fertility treatment—it's essential

Where Lauren Is Now

Lauren is currently in the six-week wait for genetic testing results on her embryos, hoping for at least one viable embryo for frozen transfer. She's managing this waiting period by staying connected with her support networks, planning meaningful activities, and welcoming a new puppy companion.

Connect with Lauren

Instagram: @loz_ann

Featured Quote

"I've started going: no, it's okay to be upset. If I'm upset, I'm gonna let myself feel upset. If I'm feeling stressed, I'm gonna let myself feel stressed. And it reminded me of some of the tools that I have—that when we are feeling stressed, there's generally a reason and we need to unpack it and figure out what is going on and how do I minimize my stress?"

Resources Mentioned

Solo moms support groups through fertility clinics
Mental health and resilience programs for infertility
Children's book: "The Bag of Worries" (referenced as a therapeutic tool)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques

Connect with Sharna

** Grab the FREE Loss to Purpose Masterclass - if you want to know how to turn your experience into your expertise: https://www.sharnasouthan.com/loss-to-purpose-masterclass

LinkedIn: @sharnasouthan Instagram: @pregnancyloss_podcast || @instituteofhealing_pl

If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your story matters, and you don't have to navigate this journey alone.