Renowned Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan has recently shared intimate details about her challenging journey with in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and the physical demands of carrying triplets. During a candid conversation on her podcast with tennis star Sania Mirza, the 60-year-old director revealed the lesser-known aspects of her pregnancy experience.
The IVF Struggle and Breaking Taboos
Farah Khan recalled how IVF treatments were considered taboo when she underwent the procedure, despite being completely legal. "It was common, but people didn't talk about it. I decided I should speak because it is wonderful for so many people who want to be mothers," Khan emphasized during the podcast recorded in November 2025.
The filmmaker, who gave birth to triplets in 2008, revealed that her IVF journey included two failed attempts before finally succeeding. "I was 42 years old and had only four eggs left when it finally worked," she shared. Khan has since become a strong advocate for IVF awareness, having referred approximately 250 people to her doctor.
Physical Challenges of Triplet Pregnancy
Khan described in vivid detail the physical toll of carrying three babies simultaneously. "Everything was throwing up three times over. I used to have stomach rash all over. I was only in the loo at all times because, at any given time, one child was pressing on my bladder," she recalled.
The physical discomfort was so severe that sleeping became a major challenge. "I could not sleep while lying down. I used to sleep on the La-Z-Boy recliner because my stomach would come up over my heart," Khan explained. Additionally, she required daily medical visits for injections in her thigh or stomach throughout the pregnancy.
Medical Perspective on Multiple Pregnancies
Dr. Tripti Raheja, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, explains that women carrying twins or triplets often experience more intense pregnancy-related issues due to higher hormonal levels and added physical strain.
"Severe nausea and vomiting are common because levels of pregnancy hormones such as hCG and estrogen are significantly higher in multiple pregnancies," Dr. Raheja stated. Frequent urination occurs as growing babies exert greater pressure on the bladder, while abdominal discomfort and skin rashes result from excessive stretching of abdominal skin.
Elevated progesterone levels and medications prescribed during multiple pregnancies can also contribute to rashes and itching. Many women experience injection-site pain or bruising from daily hormone injections like progesterone or heparin.
Managing Multiple Pregnancy Challenges
According to medical experts, managing a multiple pregnancy requires consistent self-care and support. Eating small, frequent meals and staying hydrated with water and electrolyte-rich fluids can help ease nausea. Adequate rest in a reclined or semi-sitting position improves comfort as lying flat becomes difficult in advanced stages.
Emotional and physical support from family members plays a vital role in reducing stress. Dr. Raheja emphasizes that professional counseling may be needed to cope with anxiety, IVF-related stress, or fear of complications. Regular follow-ups with an experienced gynaecologist are essential for early identification and timely management of any medical issues.
Farah Khan's journey highlights both the challenges and triumphs of IVF and multiple pregnancies, offering hope and valuable insights for others considering similar paths to motherhood.
