Romee Strijd has revealed that she has been trying to get pregnant for two years as she unwittingly suffers from fertility issues related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Covering the maternity issue of Vogue Netherlands, the Dutch model, 25, spoke candidly about her trip, revealing that she hopes her battle will inspire other women who are struggling to conceive.
Posing for a striking blanket shoot in week 26 of her pregnancy, Romee showcased her round belly in a cropped cardigan and skirt.
Inspirational: Covering Vogue Netherlands Maternity Issue, Romee Strijd revealed she was trying to get pregnant for two years while unknowingly suffering from PCOS
Sharing the cover on Instagram on Tuesday, Romee wrote: ‘I am so grateful to be able to share the coverage of @nlvogue with my little one.
“The issue is entirely dedicated to motherhood and a true ode to all women – with or without children”.
Speaking to the magazine, Romee confirmed that she and her husband Laurens van Leeuwen have been trying to get pregnant for two years.
Complications from her PCOS and a strict lifestyle also meant the Victoria’s Secret model had no period for seven years.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. Symptoms include menstrual irregularity, excessive hair growth, acne, and obesity.
Struggles: Romee confirmed that she and her husband Laurens van Leeuwen had been trying to get pregnant for two years before her diagnosis
So candid were Romee statements about her struggle with infertility, this inspired the Vogue team to create an edition dedicated to motherhood.
In a statement, the Fashion Bible announced that the issue of motherhood is “for all (future) mothers, but also for childless women – whether by circumstance or by choice.”
“Because when a woman is in her thirties, questions about motherhood are unavoidable. With this issue, we aim to positively contribute to the conversation about motherhood.
Wrestling: The Victoria’s Secret model realized her PCOS was affected by stress as she traveled all the time, worked out every day and limited food (pictured in 2018)
Romee, seven months pregnant, revealed in May that she was expecting her first child, later confirming that she was going to have a daughter.
In her pregnancy announcement, the model shared an adorable snap with her husband as she reflected on her fertility issues.
Along with the snap, she wrote: ‘WE ARE GOING TO HAVE A BABY. 2 years ago I was diagnosed with PCOS after 7 years of non-menstruation. I was devastated because being a mom and having a family with @laurensvleeuwen is my biggest dream.
“ I was so scared that I would never be able to do it because I was told that it was harder to have babies naturally .. I started to research PCOS and came to the conclusion that mine was not the typical pcos .. Mine was because of my body being in fight or flight mode .. which meant my body was under constant stress.
“ I never felt very stressed mentally so it was hard to figure that out, but my life was about traveling all the time (no biorhythm), training everyday, eating very clean (restrict food).
“ I think I put pressure on my body, and honestly every body is so different, but I think my weight was not right for my body to function properly and it couldn’t take the travel. constant.
“ This was when I started researching the natural cure for PCOS and came to the conclusion that I should be doing a lot less high intensity training, not restricting foods, being nice to myself and take breaks when needed.
Baby Joy: Seven-month-pregnant Romee revealed in May that she is expecting her first child, later confirming she will have a daughter
“ I also tried natural supplements, acupuncture and we also found a place in the Netherlands, so that we can spend more time with the family (since I am a relative).
“ I’m so happy and grateful to say that I got my period last November AND WE ARE SOON A FAMILY OF THREE ❤ ❤❤❤ and to women who are trying to conceive believe in yourself and be kind to you and your body and don’t let these thoughts affect you too much [sic]”.
Vogue Netherland’s maternity issue released Thursday and available for pre-order now.
