S4:E10 - Meike & Lyla

What I’ve Learned Raising a Donor-Conceived Child: Meike’s Solo Mum Story and Co-Creating DCP Hub

Meike started IVF at 36 and became a solo mum to baby Lyla—now, 9 years later, she’s sharing what it’s really like.

In this powerful episode, Meike reflects on her journey from a low AMH diagnosis to IVF and solo motherhood, but most importantly, what she’s learned raising her now 9-year-old daughter Lyla, who was conceived using an open-ID donor.

Meike speaks openly about telling Lyla her conception story from the start, how those conversations have changed over time, and what solo mums need to understand about supporting their donor-conceived children emotionally and developmentally. She also shares the inspiration behind co-founding DCP Hub, supporting donor-conceived people, recipient parents and parents through education and events.

Key Highlights:

• IVF and AMH at 35: How a low AMH result became the push to stop waiting and start IVF at 36

• Becoming a Solo Mum by Choice: Choosing an open-ID donor and navigating pregnancy solo

• Lyla at 9 Years Old: What Meike has learned about raising a donor-conceived child over nearly a decade

• Starting DCP Hub: How her daughter’s questions and evolving awareness inspired her to co-create education, events and support for donor-conceived people, recipient parents, donors and friends and family.

• Telling the Story Early: Why Meike has always been open with Lyla about her origins—and the age-appropriate ways those conversations have developed

• Support and Community: The importance of connection for both donor-conceived children and solo mums

City Fertility Offer

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

DCP Hub

Started by two Melbourne solo mums, Meike and Feona, DCP Hub supports donor-conceived people, recipient parents, donors, friends and families through education, resources, books and events. Find out all the details here.

Thinking About Solo Motherhood But Not Sure Where to Start?

The idea of becoming a solo mum is exciting—but also completely overwhelming. Where do you even begin? Fertility treatments, donor options, financial planning, emotional readiness… it’s a lot to figure out.

The Solo Mum Society Considering Solo Motherhood course takes the guesswork out of it. It brings everything together in one place and helps you decide if this path is right for you. No more endless Googling, no more second-guessing—just clear, structured guidance so you can move forward with confidence. Learn more here.

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