Kaitlyn Smith: Influencer’s new Monash IVF deal a step in the right direction
The very first time my fertility became a standard topic of conversation still haunts me – it was on a first date not long after I’d turned 30.
Opinion
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The very first time my fertility became a standard topic of conversation still haunts me.
It was 2021, I’d not long ago turned 30 and opted to spend my Thursday evening on a first date with a man no less than two years my junior.
Chips, guacamole, and a mix of soft shell tacos were on the menu. Apparently, so was the matter of my reproductive health.
Casually he asked: “So, have you considered freezing your eggs?”
This was it. I’d finally reached the point in dating where suitors now queried the state of my fertility before they might commit to a spinster like me.
At the very least I took it as my date’s not-so-subtle hint that I should be considering my options to procreate – a constant reminder I’ve been fronted with ever since.
During a visit to my doctor over concerns of chronic fatigue I was offered an unexpected remedy: “Find a nice man, smile more” my female GP suggested.
I’d be happier, energised. Most importantly, I was only growing older with each passing day and, well, time was of the essence.
Even targeted ads on social media spruiking IVF or egg-freezing littered my feed long before influencer Tully Smyth’s controversial new partnership with Monash IVF.
Trading medical services for promotion seems icky at first glance, but breaking down stigma and educating the former reality star’s 218K-plus followers far outweighs any downfall.
Those who need or desire more information will have raw insight. Others on similar journeys will hopefully feel less alone and speak of their struggles if the time ever feels right.
Promoting options for women not yet ready to step away from their careers, permanently or for a short period, to raise children is also crucial.
Truthfully, I have little desire to have kids before I’m in a committed relationship. Given my perpetual singledom this likely won’t be until I’m 35.
But mine isn’t a rare scenario. In 2020, almost 75,000 babies born nationwide were to mums aged 35 or over, compared to 67,000 in 2010.
Women of all ages are finally taking control of their journeys, with some brave enough to share it publicly. There should never be any shame in that.
Who knows, maybe partnerships like Tully’s could mean our distant relatives and first dates find new matters to discuss beyond a woman’s biological clock.
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Originally published as Kaitlyn Smith: Influencer’s new Monash IVF deal a step in the right direction
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