9 October 2018

Baby Max arrives after mum trials chromosome abnormalities test

After one devastating pregnancy loss after another, Charlene and Neil were offered a new PGT-M technique of 'karyomapping' to help prevent the miscarriages.

Neil and I met when we were very young. After 13 years together we married and planned to start a family. To our delight I got pregnant straight away and in 2007 we had a beautiful healthy daughter - Lois. I had really enjoyed my pregnancy and we loved being parents, so we decided to start trying for a sibling for Lois as soon as possible.

Again I got pregnant quickly but miscarried soon after. A few weeks later I was pregnant again but to our horror this too ended with the loss of our tiny baby daughter at five months. It is impossible to describe the utter devastation of giving birth to your child, holding her lifeless body and then having to leave her behind at the hospital. We were broken, our lives had changed forever.

The grief was immense, the start of a very dark period of our lives. A post mortem suggested that a particular genetic syndrome might be to blame, but could not confirm. We were encouraged to try again. We were so desperate for more children we somehow found the strength to carry on. Again I fell pregnant very quickly but after another early miscarriage and then two more devastating losses of a son at four months and another daughter at 13 weeks, we refused to continue, despite pressure from the geneticists that continuing naturally was our best chance.

It had now been confirmed that our recurrent losses were because of an autosomal recessive genetic syndrome - and that IVF with PGT-M was an option for us. This meant that the embryos could be tested for the genetic defect before they were transferred to my womb. I had always been so particular about being extra healthy going into a pregnancy; my diet so was clean and I wouldn’t so much as take a paracetamol, so the idea of injecting drugs into my body pre-pregnancy seemed so wrong . . . but I knew we had no choice.

As we already had one living child we did not qualify for any financial help, so we re-mortgaged our house and went for our first cycle. Although I seemed very fertile, I did not produce many eggs, and, once the genetic testing was done there was only one embryo healthy enough to put back. However, I was convinced it would work, I had been pregnant so many times, how could we fail? But the pregnancy test was negative, and once again we were devastated.

A few months later we had a second cycle. Again, I produced very few eggs and only one embryo was suitable for transfer. This time the test was positive, but I miscarried a few days later.

I was confused. Why was I having so many early miscarriages? I did some research and suspected that my ovaries might be prematurely ageing because of prolonged emotional stress, and as a result were producing many chromosomally abnormal eggs, despite my relatively young age of mid-late thirties.

Then a friend recommended the Bridge Centre (now the LWC London Bridge) and we attended an open evening at which we spoke to an enthusiastic embryologist who explained that they were undertaking a trial of a new procedure called karyomapping. This meant that not only could they test the embryos for the genetic syndrome, but could also test for any chromosome abnormalities at the same time. This was what we’d been waiting for!

So we met with the PGT-M genetic counsellor. She was caring, compassionate and easy to communicate with - quite different from the staff at our previous IVF clinic! – and we breathed a sigh of relief. The next step was to meet Professor Handyside who was running the trial, and it was agreed that we would take part.

I was given a mega-cocktail of drugs, but still only produced seven eggs, a slight improvement on the last two cycles. I was shaking as I received the call to say that once again there was only one embryo suitable for transfer - but this time we knew that not only was it clear of the genetic syndrome, but there were no missing chromosomes. I was terrified but deep down reassured that this time there was no reason for me to miscarry. This was our last shot, we were physically, emotionally and financially drained.

The pregnancy was terrifying. I had some early bleeding, severe vomiting leading to an overnight stay in hospital and then flu . . . but thankfully the baby remained strong throughout. At 16 weeks after another scan we decided to tell Lois. I could barely speak for crying happy tears, we had waited so long for this moment. Lois squealed with delight and cuddled and kissed my tummy for the rest of the day.

After a further scan we started to relax a little and to believe that maybe we would get to bring this little miracle home after all. Then at 33.5 weeks a scan (which I had requested for reassurance) showed that I had placenta vasa previa, which meant that both the placenta and the cord were covering the cervix and that if I went into natural labour the baby would be stillborn. I was immediately given steroid injections to mature the baby’s lungs very quickly, and was admitted to hospital for monitoring until a ‘planned emergency c-section’ would take place in four days time – six weeks premature!

Just a few minutes into the operation, I heard our baby’s first cries as he entered the world. It was the most wonderful sound. They dangled his bottom over the screen briefly so that I could see. 'It’s a boy,' I said, who weighed 6 lb 2 oz! I turned around and my beautiful baby boy was in Neil’s arms wrapped in a towel, no special care unit required, just one very large and very healthy baby - Max.

I have never felt such happiness and relief in all my life. 18 months on, Max is still a very large, healthy and happy little boy. He has a wonderful sense of humour and is very intelligent. Lois and Max adore each other. Although the children we lost can never be replaced, every day we remember how blessed we are to have Lois and Max. The journey has been tough but it definitely makes you appreciate what you have. We have since learnt that the karyomapping trial was a huge success and that this procedure is now openly available to all couples. We feel very proud that our baby Max helped to make the promise of karyomapping such a reality for so many couples and families in a similar situation to us.

For more information on karyomapping and PGT-M please call 020 7563 4309 or complete our contact form.

All of our blog posts are written, edited, or produced by the London Women's Clinic Content Team. This is a collaboration between our expert writers, health editors, and the leading researchers and senior doctors at our Harley Street clinic.

‘We started our IVF process with LWC around a year ago. It felt very daunting and a long road ahead, and the entire team were so supportive and explained everything so clearly. When we were undergoing the egg retreival and transfer, the team were so kind and we felt really looked after. We have now welcomed our little girl and after years of trying, we wouldn't have gotten here without the support and guidance given by LWC. Thank you all!’

Alice Maker

22 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘Dr Suraya made our appointment a really enjoyable experience. She made us both feel at ease and was so knowledgeable throughout the scan. Dr Suraya is a real asset to LWC’

Liz Troup

22 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘I received excellent care from all the staff at London Women's Clinic, we felt very welcomed as a same sex couple. We are so grateful to have been able to have our wonderful daughter. I would definitely recommend the clinic to anyone starting fertility treatment!’

Megan Knox

21 January 2026, LWC Canterbury

‘I've recently completed a round of egg freezing with London Women's Clinic harrow and I couldn't recommend them as a clinic more. Carla and Ana-Maria quite literally held my hand throughout the entire process, making me feel really relaxed and supported. It's made such a stressful experience super positive and if anyone is thinking of using them, I'd absolutely recommend them!’

Brooke Day

19 January 2026, LWC Harrow

‘I undertook Kind IVF, which even though is nurse led as opposed to consultant led, the care, professionalism and knowledge is there. The nurses consult with consultants during your protocol, so the difference really is you see the nurses instead. The medication doses are less and less medication, but this doesn't mean it will be less effective, it is an option worth exploring, as the cost is less and can open the door when more traditional ivf is out of reach. I am currently pregnant having gone through the kind ivf protocol one time.’

APINTOF MEGAN

19 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘Exceptional service from start to finish. Highly recommend Harley street team for looking after us. Absolutely loved your service and care. Thank you London woman's clinic :)’

Anh Nguyen

19 January 2026, LWC Harley Street

‘The team at the Cambridge LWC branch have been incredibly supportive, encouraging and helpful throughout our journey, and have been with us through the ups and downs. It's a very safe and inclusive space, and we feel very well cared for. We can't recommend them enough! Sarah and Jacqui’

Sarah Peace

16 January 2026, LWC Cambridge

‘We will be forever grateful to London Women's Clinic Bromley for helping us achieve what once felt impossible -- welcoming our beautiful, healthy baby boy in November 2025. Our IVF journey was emotional, overwhelming at times, and deeply personal, but from the very first appointment we were met with nothing but kindness, compassion, and unwavering support. Every step was clearly explained, we were kept fully informed throughout, and there was always someone available to answer our questions or simply reassure us when we needed it most. We never once felt like just another patient -- we felt truly cared for. Dr Malini, Sarah, Nicky (Nikita) and Dom were exceptional and will always hold a very special place in our hearts. Their warmth, patience, and genuine kindness made the process so much easier to cope with. They made us feel safe, comfortable, and supported during some of the most vulnerable moments of our lives. Every nurse, embryologist, and member of staff we encountered was wonderful. We honestly cannot recommend London Women's Clinic Bromley enough to anyone struggling with fertility or facing similar challenges. The dedication, empathy, and expertise of this team has changed our lives forever. We hope to take the clinic up on their offer to visit with our little miracle, who we are endlessly thankful they helped bring into this world. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Lucy & Sayed ’

Lucy morgan

16 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘My journey with egg freezing in the LWC has been amazing. I had started consultations with another provider before but didn't feel comfortable there, and I'm SO GLAD I listened to my instinct and went to this clinic! The whole team was so knowledgeable and supportive throughout, but also just lovely. I would recommend the clinic, ESPECIALLY if you are worried about the process and feel emotional, the understanding and support here is way beyond what I was hoping for!!!’

Charlotte M

15 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘My journey with the LWC in London Bridge + Harley Street has been outstanding. The team is so lovely, I felt welcomed and understood from the first to the last call and through every appointment in between. I would recommend it to every friend!’

Charlotte M

15 January 2026, LWC Harley Street

‘Nicki has a beautiful and excellent personality, she was so kind, polite and sweet. I felt so happy after the scan . Bless her. Right woman for the job.’

Steave Oyinloye

15 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘Nikita was fab - really put me at ease with my scan and able to relax. Feel very supported’

S S

15 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘Just had my scan with Nikki and she was very informative and made me feel very comfortable.’

Lisa

15 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘Nikita was excellent and mindful during our initial scan/consultation explained everything well.’

james harris

15 January 2026, LWC Bromley

‘Myself and partner have had a lovely experience with LWC Canterbury they are thoughtful and caring. Always made us feel comfort and welcome even through the difficulties that we have faced on our journey, however we will be forever grateful for all they have done and are contiuing to do.’

Natasha Elliott

14 January 2026, LWC Canterbury

‘This was my first fertility treatment, and I cannot express enough how thankful I am to have chosen LWC and to have been treated at the Harrow clinic. I would highly recommend it to anyone considering starting their fertility journey! From the start, I appreciated how transparent the admin team was about all the costs involved at every stage, giving clear ranges when the decision depended on how the treatment would go. I am also extremely grateful for their support in helping with securing financing, even when I decided to move forward at short notice. They took the time to schedule calls to answer my questions, and I truly felt listened to and cared for as a patient. At the Harrow clinic, I experienced an exceptionally caring and positive environment. All the nurses were highly professional while also being incredibly comforting and supportive. I would especially like to thank Ana Maria, who was there throughout the process, offering practical advice based on her own experience, a hug when needed, and making the entire journey feel much more like home. I would also like to thank Carla for her positivity, high energy, and encouragement during difficult moments, and Laura for her empowering and reassuring approach to the injections. Dr Goswami was also outstanding--extremely professional and clear in her advice. She carefully adjusted the treatment to aim for the best possible outcome while prioritising safety and minimising risks. I am also very grateful for the support groups organised by the clinic. Through these, I met incredibly brave and empowered women and couples. Sharing this journey with some of them made the experience far more bearable and positive. Thank you to everyone at the Harrow clinic and LWC for your incredible support!!’

Marina Riabiz

14 January 2026, LWC Harrow

‘We had a very positive experience at this IVF clinic and would highly recommend it. From the very beginning, we felt well supported and looked after throughout the entire journey. A special thank you to Safak, our patient coordinator, who was incredibly helpful and always very quick to respond. We would also like to thank Princess, the receptionist, as well as the Italian receptionist whose name we unfortunately don't remember, for always being kind and welcoming. We are extremely grateful to Dr Suraya, who performed many of our scans and was exceptional throughout the process, and to Dr Rao, who followed our journey step by step with great care, professionalism and attention. Finally, a big thank you to all the nurses, especially Hannah,Ella and Paige, for their support, kindness and professionalism. Overall, we felt very well cared for and supported, and we truly recommend this clinic to anyone considering IVF!’

Alicia Gioia

12 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘The reception staff are amazing nothing is to much trouble. Always answered any queries we had. The whole team were brilliant from our first initial appointment too our very last. They made us feel so comfortable.’

Rachel Powell

12 January 2026, LWC Bristol

‘We don't know where to begin, this place truly is wonderful. So so comforting and welcoming. Every single staff member went above and beyond and really felt like family. We couldn't be more appreciative of everyone who helped us on our way to creat our little one, who is cooking away nicely at 20 weeks. From choosing a sperm donor to my egg collection and then to getting my wife pregnant with the embryos a few months later, it was so stress free and we felt supported every single step of the way. We can't thank all the lovely wonderful ladies at the Brentwood clinic enough for what they have helped us achieve- and of course the amazing people at the Harley street clinic for doing the procedures who were just as welcoming! Thank you all so so much, we can't wait to bring our little man to meet you all when we are ready to try for baby number 2 xxxxx’

molly bannister

9 January 2026, LWC Brentwood

‘Following a seminar I attended at LWC, I arranged a consultation with Dr. Naware who specialises in fertility for women over 40. It was a refreshing experience. Dr. Naware is empathetic, kind and thorough. The follow up from the clinic was excellent, with Safak, Patient Coordinator, providing regular updates.’

A Patel

9 January 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘We are incredibly grateful to London Women's Clinic - Canterbury for their outstanding care and support throughout our IVF journey. Both the Canterbury and Bromley teams surrounded us with genuine kindness, understanding, and constant attention. We always felt listened to and truly cared for, and the level of professionalism was exceptional at every stage. Thanks to their dedication and hard work, we had the chance to welcome our beautiful little daughter into the world. We cannot recommend this clinic highly enough.’

Natalia Twardochleb

8 January 2026, LWC Canterbury

‘We can't recommend the London Women's Clinic enough. My partner and I are a same-sex female couple and are currently pregnant with our baby due in July -- after only two attempts. From the moment we chose the London Women's Clinic, the experience was incredible. The Harrow branch in particular felt so welcoming and supportive. Carla Lang, Ana-Maria, Laura Adagbon, and Dr Gill were absolutely amazing -- accommodating, kind, friendly, and genuinely caring. They went above and beyond throughout our entire journey, even responding to emails outside of working hours, which meant so much to us. We had previously completed blood tests and scans at another clinic but didn't feel it was the right fit. The London Women's Clinic didn't push us to repeat everything unnecessarily -- they accepted our previous tests, which really showed that they are not money-driven. On that note, their pricing is also very affordable compared to other clinics. Dr Gill is incredibly thorough and precise, taking so many factors into account when planning treatment, which gave us complete confidence. Our insemination was carried out at the Harley Street London Women's Clinic by Dr Yogita Date, who was equally wonderful. She made us feel comfortable, supported, and genuinely wished us luck during the procedure. Overall, this clinic felt more like family than a medical service. Even now, they continue to check in on us and our pregnancy, which says everything about the level of care they provide. We are beyond grateful and wouldn't hesitate to recommend the London Women's Clinic to anyone starting their fertility journey.’

Maisie Thomas

8 January 2026, LWC Harrow

‘The team at LWC Harley Street have been outstanding. They have supported my wife and I through our IVF journey at every step, keeping us informed and making the entire journey feel seamless. A special thanks to Dr Serra, Nurse Mimi, Vita and the rest of the LWC team that have helped us along the way. We are now 20 weeks into our pregnancy and LWC have continued to follow up to ensure all is well. A big thank you once again and we highly recommend LWC Harley Street to anyone considering IVF.’

Keyur Nakum

29 December 2025, LWC Harley Street

‘Cannot fault the ladies here at all. I felt so so welcome and looked after during the visit and consultation. The nurses were so compassionate and lovely, and I really felt like I was being listened to and understood. Would recommend to anyone looking to start a fertility journey/make some enquiries into their fertility healthxx’

Ellie Brown

19 December 2025, LWC Canterbury

‘Myself and my partners experience with LWC in Canterbury has been AMAZING! They have been so supportive and friendly throughout our whole IVF journey and gave us no stress throughout any part of it. Would very highly recommend as our first round of ISCI IVF worked ’

Mia Summers

19 December 2025, LWC Canterbury