Gemma Collins Opens Up About IVF Journey's Impact on Relationship
Reality television personality Gemma Collins has candidly revealed that her relationship with fiancé Rami Hawash "took a hit" during her emotionally draining IVF journey, which left her feeling completely "broken." The 45-year-old star, who rose to fame on The Only Way Is Essex, shared these personal revelations during a preview of her new Sky series, offering viewers an intimate look at her struggles with fertility and relationship dynamics.
Reignited Romance and Engagement Plans
Collins rekindled her romance with businessman Rami Hawash in 2020 following her separation from former partner James 'Arg' Argent. Their relationship reached a significant milestone in 2024 when Hawash proposed, with the couple planning to exchange vows later this year. Despite these happy developments, Collins has been transparent about the challenges they've faced, particularly regarding her fertility journey.
The Emotional Toll of IVF Treatment
Speaking to presenter Dermot O'Leary about her upcoming series Four Weddings And A Baby, Collins explained: "My relationship was obviously taking a bit of a hit, I was trying to have a baby - my whole world just fell apart." She elaborated that the immense trauma and struggles she experienced left no room for her usual performative persona, allowing audiences to see her authentic self. "Everyone gets to see the real me - you're in my home. It's what people don't see. I was broken," she confessed.
Medical Challenges and Family Considerations
Collins faces significant medical obstacles in her quest to conceive, including:
- A low Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) level, indicating a limited egg reserve
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which directly affects ovarian function
- Three previous miscarriages, with the first occurring in 2012
The reality star has experienced profound loss, including a traumatic home birth in 2012 where she didn't realize she was pregnant until the baby "died in front of her" on her landing. She suffered additional miscarriages in 2020, including one during the COVID-19 pandemic and another while pregnant with her ex-boyfriend James Argent's child.
Collins is already a stepmother to Hawash's seven-year-old son Tristan and has considered alternative paths to parenthood, including surrogacy and fostering. She has expressed particular interest in fostering due to her own mother's experience as a fostered child.
Wedding Plans and Future Aspirations
Despite the challenges, Collins and Hawash are moving forward with ambitious wedding plans that reflect their unique style. The couple intends to host multiple ceremonies:
- A main ceremony in the United Kingdom
- A second celebration abroad
- A formal event for close family and friends
True to her flamboyant personality, Collins plans to wear several different wedding dresses across these celebrations. She recently paid tribute to Hawash as her "forever love," recalling how he supported her early career by providing financial assistance for hair, makeup, and outfits during filming days.
Decision to Remain in the United Kingdom
Collins has also confirmed she has abandoned plans to relocate to Dubai with Hawash and Tristan, citing her deep connection to Britain. "My heart's in the UK. I love Britain. I love afternoon tea. I love driving into London and seeing Big Ben," she told New! magazine. While acknowledging that winter months and seasonal affective disorder sometimes make Dubai appealing, she ultimately concluded: "I'd miss the UK too much... my heart is with the people of the UK so no I'm staying put."
Through her new television series and recent interviews, Collins continues to share her journey with remarkable honesty, offering insight into the complex intersection of fertility struggles, relationship dynamics, and personal resilience in the public eye.
