Laura Adlington, a finalist from the 2020 season of The Great British Bake Off, has shared the joyous news of her pregnancy after nearly a decade of infertility struggles.
The 36-year-old star, who reached the final of the popular Channel 4 competition in 2020, revealed her “miracle” baby news on Instagram today. Laura and her husband, Matt, are expecting their first child in October after what she described as “nine years of infertility.”
In her post, Laura, a body positivity advocate, began with a thoughtful trigger warning for those currently facing fertility challenges. She encouraged anyone for whom the news might be painful to “mute and unfollow” her. She then detailed her long, difficult journey to conception, sharing that she had made peace with the possibility of not having children.
Laura’s struggle with infertility was something she had been open about previously, especially in 2022 when doctors advised her to lose 14 stone to qualify for IVF. Laura explained how she struggled to meet the weight loss target, even considering weight loss surgery. Despite the pressure, she never gave up on her dream of becoming a mother.
“People said we didn’t want it enough because I didn’t lose the weight,” Laura reflected in an interview with The Sun’s Fabulous Magazine in 2022. “But it was such a lot to lose, and I just struggled to do that.”
After several rounds of IVF, including one unsuccessful attempt and another that was canceled, Laura was overjoyed to discover that she was finally pregnant. The couple had kept their IVF journey private, sharing the experience only with close family and friends to avoid unnecessary pressure.
“Honestly, we can’t believe our luck,” Laura shared with her followers. “I’ll be sharing more about our journey in the coming weeks, but for now, we’re just so excited.”
The announcement was met with an outpouring of support from friends and fans alike. Fellow Bake Off star John Whaite celebrated with an enthusiastic “Huge congrats lovely xx,” while comedian Ellie Taylor expressed her excitement with, “THRILLLLLLED!!!”
In addition to her baking career, Laura has become a prominent body positivity and wellness advocate. She won the wellness category at the 2023 British Podcast Awards for her podcast Go Love Yourself with Lauren Smith, where she promotes self-love and confidence.
Despite the challenges of her infertility journey, Laura remains optimistic. She continues to inspire others with her message that “the way you look is the least interesting thing about you.”
Laura’s story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of never giving up on one’s dreams.
Related Topics:
