A same sex couple has revealed how they overcame fertility problems to become pregnant at the same time – before giving birth just two days apart.
Anna and Renee McInarnay, 35 and 36, from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, US, both underwent IVF treatment, and were told they had just a 38 per cent chance of success because of their ages.
Renee had an even lower chance as she also had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and so neither believed that conception could be a ‘real possibility’.
They then received a phone call telling them that Anna was pregnant and were stunned to find out that Renee, who had only produced one egg for fertilisation, was also carrying a child too.
The couple, who have been together for 18 years, said the news was a ‘miracle’ and went on to attend birthing classes together, even planning to welcome their little ones into the world on the same day.
However, because of complications, they both needed c-sections after long labours and decided to give birth separately
On Saturday October 13, Emma Reese was born to Renee. She weighed 7lb 13oz.
Anna then gave birth to Avonlea Grace, 7lb 1oz, a mere two days, seven hours and 48 minutes later.
‘I couldn’t be more grateful for having a good doctor that listened, it made a really beautiful outcome for Renee and I, ensuring we were all healthy and safe the whole time.
‘We hope our daughters will be really close, they have been sleeping next to one another and are calm when they are together.
‘They listened to both of our voices for their entire lives.
‘When we were pregnant, we prayed every day, spoke and sang to them, so when they came out it felt right to put them together.
They both decided to undergo IVF at the same time as they feared it could be Renee’s last chance at motherhood and. They both doubted the likelihood of either of them falling pregnant.
The couple can’t wait to enjoy their baby moon together now that they have been joined by Avonlea Grace and Emma Reese.
Anna said: ‘More often than not, we have been so fortunate to receive support and love, and people wishing us and our daughters well.
‘We had an amazing experience where some people struggle for years and years.
‘Anyone who wants a family should be able to have a family through any means they can do.’
