Five Years of IVF: CNA938’s Cheryl Goh Reflects on Motherhood at 40
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After five years of relentless in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments and numerous setbacks, Cheryl Goh, a prominent voice on CNA938, has become a mother at the age of 40. Goh’s deeply personal journey, marked by emotional and physical challenges, offers a candid look at the realities of late-in-life motherhood and the increasing prevalence of assisted reproductive technologies. Her story resonates with a growing number of individuals and couples navigating the complexities of building a family later in life.
The Long Road to Motherhood
Goh’s decision to pursue motherhood wasn’t immediate. She initially focused on her career, but as she approached her late 30s, the desire to start a family grew stronger. Recognizing the potential challenges of conceiving naturally at her age, she and her husband proactively sought guidance from fertility specialists. This led them down the path of IVF, a process that would ultimately test their resilience and redefine their understanding of hope and perseverance.
“It felt like a very clinical process, and it was emotionally draining,” Goh shared, describing the initial stages of IVF. The early attempts were filled with optimism, quickly followed by disappointment with each failed cycle. The emotional toll was significant, impacting not only Goh but also her relationship with her husband.
The repeated failures took a heavy toll. Goh described feeling a sense of grief with each negative result, questioning her body and her ability to become a mother. The financial burden of IVF treatments, coupled with the emotional strain, created a cycle of stress and uncertainty.
She emphasized the importance of having a strong support system during this time. “Having a partner who is fully committed and understanding is crucial,” Goh stated. “It’s also important to find a support group or therapist to help navigate the emotional challenges.”
The journey also highlighted the societal pressures surrounding motherhood and the often-unspoken anxieties of women delaying childbearing. Goh noted the feeling of being “out of sync” with friends who had children earlier in life, and the internal struggle to reconcile her career aspirations with her desire for a family.
The Turning Point and a Long-Awaited Arrival
After multiple failed cycles, Goh and her husband considered alternative options, including donor eggs. However, they ultimately decided to try one last round of IVF with their own eggs. This final attempt proved successful, and Goh found herself pregnant.
The pregnancy itself wasn’t without its anxieties, given her age and the history of previous failures. However, she remained cautiously optimistic, cherishing each milestone. In July 2023, Goh welcomed her daughter into the world.
“Holding her for the first time was an indescribable feeling,” Goh recounted. “It was a moment of pure joy and relief, after years of longing and uncertainty.”
Redefining Family and Embracing Imperfection
Goh’s experience has profoundly shaped her perspective on motherhood and family. She acknowledges that there is no “right” way to build a family and that the journey is often messy and unpredictable.
“I’ve learned to embrace imperfection and to let go of expectations,” she said. “Motherhood is not about being perfect; it’s about being present and loving your child unconditionally.”
Goh hopes that by sharing her story, she can offer hope and support to others struggling with infertility. She believes that open conversations about the challenges of assisted reproductive technologies are essential to destigmatize the process and create a more compassionate and understanding society. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of repeated setbacks, the dream of parenthood can still come true.
