Alisha Burns in Mamamia: Choosing IVF and Solo Motherhood at 38
In October 2024, Alisha Burns shared her story with Mamamia in a feature about choosing to become a mum on her own through IVF and donor conception at 38.
The article follows Alisha’s path from infertility, loss and the end of her marriage to the decision, after her father’s sudden death, to stop waiting and become a solo mum by choice.
What the story covers
The decision: why Alisha stopped waiting for a partner and committed to two rounds of IVF on her own.
Australia’s donor sperm shortage: why finding a donor is one of the hardest parts of the process.
The real cost: what IVF and donor conception cost a single woman in Australia, and how Medicare rebates usually work.
Openness with donor-conceived children: talking about donor conception from day one, and connecting with donor siblings through Victoria’s register.
Life as a solo mum: the financial and emotional realities, and the surprising upsides.
Community: why Alisha founded Solo Mum Society, so no woman has to make this decision alone.
“I thought, I'll do two rounds, and if it doesn't work, then at least I'll never look back and wonder, 'what if?”
— Alisha Burns, founder of Solo Mum Society
Considering solo motherhood?
Start with the free Decision Starter, or hear more real stories on the No Need for Prince Charming podcast.
Media enquiries: Alisha is available for comment on solo motherhood, IVF, donor conception and modern families. Contact Alisha