Gemma Collins Opens Up on IVF Struggles: “My Relationship Took a Hit”
Gemma Collins has revealed the emotional toll her IVF journey has taken on her relationship with fiancé Rami Hawash, leaving her “broken” at times. The reality star, 45, opened up about the strain on her romance as she discussed her fertility struggles and how the entire process left her feeling overwhelmed.
Gemma and Rami, who rekindled their relationship in 2020 after her split from James ‘Arg’ Argent, got engaged in 2024, with plans to wed later this year. However, Gemma admitted that her ongoing battle with infertility put a significant strain on their relationship.
In an emotional interview during the first look at her upcoming Sky series, Four Weddings And A Baby, Gemma shared candidly with Dermot O’Leary: “My relationship was obviously taking a bit of a hit. I was trying to have a baby – my whole world just fell apart.”
She continued: “Because I was going through so much trauma and struggles, there was no performative person there.” Gemma also expressed that the show allowed her to open up like never before, revealing the unfiltered side of her life. “Everyone gets to see the real me – you’re in my home. It’s what people don’t see. I was broken,” she said, showcasing her vulnerability on screen.
Already a stepmother to Rami’s 7-year-old son, Tristan, Gemma has been open about her struggles with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that directly affects the ovaries, and her low AMH levels, which means she has fewer eggs available. She’s also experienced three devastating miscarriages, including a heart-wrenching loss in 2012, which she only spoke about publicly in 2020. Her second and third losses came in 2020, while navigating the emotional turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the challenges, Gemma has considered exploring surrogacy or fostering, particularly due to her own mother’s experience as a foster child. “I’m not giving up,” Gemma shared, reflecting on her options for expanding her family.
In addition to her personal journey, Gemma recently announced she has abandoned plans to relocate to Dubai, citing her love for the UK as a key reason for staying. Despite the allure of the luxury lifestyle in Dubai, she confessed, “My heart is here in the UK. I love Britain. I love afternoon tea. I love driving into London and seeing Big Ben. No one’s a bigger rep for the UK than me.”
Gemma’s wedding plans are already in motion, with the star envisioning a multi-celebration affair. “I want a main ceremony in the UK, a second one abroad, and a formal one for our closest family and friends,” she revealed, adding that she’s already planning on wearing several wedding dresses, in true GC fashion.
Gemma also took a moment to reflect on the support Rami has provided throughout their relationship and her rise to fame. In a heartfelt tribute to her “forever love,” she shared on social media: “When I met Rami, I was selling cars! I gave it all up for £50 a day, and it was the best risk I took. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
She continued: “Rami would always say to me, ‘You’re gonna make it, you will be successful,’ and would give me money for hair, makeup, and outfits. He supported me from the very beginning.”
Gemma’s emotional journey continues to unfold, both in her personal life and on screen, as she embraces her story with vulnerability and strength.
