Mother Shares Distinct IVF Journey Resulting in Siblings Conceived Together, Born Years Apart

In Kansas City, Missouri, Taylor Greenhagen, a dental hygienist, and her husband Justin, a pharmacist, have an uncommon story about their two children. Owen, aged 3, and Dylan, 7 months, were conceived at the same time but born three years apart.

Greenhagen mentions how Owen and Dylan’s relationship displays a notable family resemblance. As siblings, they share a strong bond. ‘Owen has been the sweetest big brother from the very beginning,’ Greenhagen stated. ‘Dylan adores him and lights up when she watches him. They’re still little, but I like to think they’re already best friends.’

Their connection highlights the difficult journey Greenhagen undertook through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Each year, about 250,000 Americans choose IVF to start a family. Greenhagen faced infertility due to anovulatory PCOS. ‘After several medicated cycles and unsuccessful IUIs, we opted for IVF as our best chance,’ Greenhagen explained.

Despite appreciating the support from the fertility clinic and her husband, she admits the IVF process was tough. ‘It’s physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding,’ she shared.

This journey led to what Greenhagen describes as her two children being ‘fraternal twins’ under unusual circumstances. She explains, ‘After an egg retrieval in IVF, eggs get fertilized and monitored for five to six days to develop into embryos. We were lucky to have eight embryos growing side by side.’

The term ‘fraternal twins’ in IVF indicates more than genetics; it’s an affectionate nod to embryos conceived simultaneously and transferred at different times.

These circumstances have fostered a ‘special bond’ between Owen and Dylan. ‘Ever since Dylan came home, there’s a connection between them that’s indescribable,’ Greenhagen observed. ‘It’s like they knew each other before meeting.’

Understanding each fertility journey is unique, even among IVF users, Greenhagen shares advice for those considering the process: ‘Be kind to yourself, give yourself grace. Surround yourself with a strong support system, and advocate for yourself. IVF is an act of hope and bravery, driven by love for the family you’re building. Expect hard days, but find hope, too.’