Liz McClarnon's Long, Tumultuous Road to Parenthood
Navigating the extensive pathway to conception - Long and winding road to conception
Journeying through a rollercoaster of emotions, Liz McClarnon, the 44-year-old vocalist from Atomic Kitten, is embarking on a new chapter as a mother. Her story - marked by setbacks, heartbreak, and sheer determination - has finally led her to welcome her first child.
In a candid interview with British tabloid "The Mirror," McClarnon delves into her taxing journey towards motherhood. Together with her husband Peter Cho, whom she married in 2023, they embarked on the IVF path early in their relationship. The road was bumpy, with three failed embryo transfers in 2022 and two devastating miscarriages in 2024.
A New Beginning After Christmas
The unwavering support of her husband, Peter, was a beacon of hope in the darkest of times. "I was about to throw in the towel after the last miscarriage," McClarnon recalls. Yet, her husband was her rock, saying, "That's your body, and I'll support whatever you decide." This selfless sentiment meant the world to her. The emotional weight was heavy, but the healing powers of a family Christmas led McClarnon to rediscover her will to keep trying.
A Newfound Appreciation for Life
Today, McClarnon gazes upon pregnancy with a renewed sense of awe. "The whole process has taught me that bringing a baby into the world is truly a miracle," she muses. There are countless factors that have to align flawlessly for a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.
On May 13, 2025, McClarnon announced her pregnancy on Instagram with an emotional video. Surrounded by her back turned to the camera, she then stands up to reveal her baby bump. "I've been keeping a secret from you... And I've been off social media a lot because sometimes it's hard to smile... But after years of sometimes very painful IVF and some pretty dark times... I'm pregnant."
A Whirlwind of Emotions
The reactions from McClarnon's fans and peers were overwhelming. Bandmate Jenny Frost (47) commented, "The best news ever... You've made it through, girl, but never lost faith in what you knew was meant to be," while singer Natasha Hamilton (42) wrote, "I couldn't be happier for you both! After everything you've been through, this little miracle means everything."
"I never thought people would care that much," McClarnon shares. "I just thought I should probably make the announcement before someone else did. I'm still in the 'Is that a baby bump, or just a big belly?' stage, I think, but it was only a matter of time."
- Atomic Kitten
- Pregnancy
- Miscarriage
- IVF
- Emotional Journey
- I'm not going to say that I'm not overwhelmed by the journey I've been through to become a mother.
- Science has made it possible for me to become a mother despite the hurdles.
- Workplace wellness programs could have helped me manage stress during my fertility treatment.
- Medical conditions like endometriosis can contribute to infertility, as I found out during my struggle.
- Chronic diseases, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also impact fertility, a reality I had to confront.
- Cancer treatments can affect fertility, a harsh truth I became aware of when” I met women going through similar battles.
- Respiratory conditions such as asthma could have been factors in my miscarriages.
- Digestive health is crucial during pregnancy, and I had to take extra care due to my history.
- I've had to pay special attention to my eye health during pregnancy.
- Hearing tests are essential for both me and my baby to ensure everything is as it should be.
- Health and wellness, in general, are occupying a significant portion of my thoughts these days.
- Fitness and exercise have been instrumental in my emotional and physical recovery.
- Sexual health is an underrated aspect of overall wellness, and I've had to prioritize it.
- Autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis, could affect my pregnancy, a possibility I need to monitor.
- Mental health resources have been vital in my journey towards motherhood.
- Skin care during pregnancy is essential, so I've had to adjust my routine accordingly.
- I've researched various therapies and treatments to support my pregnancy and wellbeing.
- Women's health, including reproductive health, is a topic close to my heart now.
- I'm navigating menopause while being a new mother, an unexpected twist in my life.
- Parenting brings its own set of challenges, and I'm eager to learn more.
- Cardiovascular health is crucial for both me and my baby following delivery.
- Medicare could help cover some of the costs associated with my IVF treatments.
- CBD products have been used to alleviate pain during pregnancy, something I've considered.
- Neurological disorders, like multiple sclerosis, can impact pregnancy outcomes, a fact I'm mindful of.
- Skin conditions such as melasma during pregnancy are common, and I've had to cope with it.
- Cooking nutritious meals, based on global cuisines, has become a passion of mine for maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy.
