Louise Thompson says she feels 'less whole and human than she used to' due to her fertility struggles as she shares hopes of giving her son Leo a sibling with IVF and surrogacy journey

Louise Thompson, 35, has publicly shared her emotional experience as she and her partner, Ryan Libbey, navigate the challenges of expanding their family. This comes after a near-fatal birth experience with their son, Leo, in 2021, which required an emergency caesarean.

A Complex Journey to Parenthood

Thompson’s initial birth experience was traumatic, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and post-natal anxiety. Since then, she has received diagnoses of Lupus and Asherman’s syndrome, experienced a second haemorrhage, and now relies on a stoma bag. These significant health challenges have created complexities in her desire to have another child.

Did You Know? Louise Thompson’s initial birth with her son Leo required an emergency caesarean in 2021.

Speaking on Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place podcast, Thompson expressed feeling “less whole and human” due to the impact of these medical issues on her fertility. She noted that she has been left with “some fertility,” meaning she no longer experiences regular menstrual cycles.

Impact on Her Partner

The desire for another child is shared with her partner, Ryan Libbey, who also feels the pull of expanding their family, as they both have close relationships with their own siblings. However, Libbey is reportedly more apprehensive about the risks associated with another pregnancy, given the trauma he experienced during Leo’s birth. He is described as “clinging on to any stability” and fearing a regression in his own mental health.

Expert Insight: The emotional toll of a traumatic birth experience can extend far beyond the physical recovery, impacting future family planning decisions and creating significant anxiety for both parents. The partner’s experience is often overlooked, but their emotional wellbeing is crucial in navigating these complex choices.

Thompson and Libbey are actively exploring options, including freezing her remaining eggs while they work on their mental wellbeing. They are also consulting with lawyers regarding surrogacy, acknowledging that achieving another pregnancy will not be straightforward.

Recent updates shared via TikTok reveal a challenging process, including learning that only four of twenty eggs were fertilized during a recent cycle. Despite these setbacks, Thompson continues to balance her fertility journey with work commitments, recognizing the importance of finding joy in other aspects of her life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What medical conditions has Louise Thompson been diagnosed with?

Louise Thompson has been diagnosed with Lupus, Asherman’s syndrome, and has experienced a second haemorrhage, in addition to suffering PTSD and post-natal anxiety following her son’s birth. She also has a stoma bag fitted.

How is Ryan Libbey feeling about the possibility of another child?

Ryan Libbey is described as more worried than Louise Thompson about having another baby, fearing a repeat of the trauma he experienced during Leo’s birth and the potential for regression in his mental health. He is prioritizing stability.

What steps are Louise Thompson and Ryan Libbey taking to explore their options?

They are exploring options including freezing eggs and consulting with lawyers about surrogacy. They are also actively working on their mental wellbeing.

How do individuals navigate the emotional complexities of family planning after a traumatic birth experience?

Louise Thompson says she feels ‘less whole and human than she used to’ due to her fertility struggles as she shares hopes of giving her son Leo a sibling with IVF and surrogacy journey