Additional Coverage:
Natalie “Nadya” Suleman, once known as “Octomom,” is stepping back into the public eye. Sixteen years ago, Suleman made headlines worldwide after giving birth to the world’s first surviving octuplets through in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Following a period of intense media scrutiny, she retreated from the spotlight in 2013. Now, Suleman is returning with a Lifetime movie, “I Was Octomom,” and a documentary series, “Confessions of Octomom,” both featuring her 14 children.
In a recent interview, Suleman discussed her experience with Dr. Michael Kamrava, the IVF doctor who facilitated the conception of all her children.
Kamrava drew significant criticism for implanting 12 embryos, exceeding the recommended limit of two. Suleman, already a mother of six, had hoped for just one more child.
She claims the doctor initially told her he had implanted six embryos but later admitted to doubling the number. Kamrava subsequently lost his medical license.
While expressing gratitude for Kamrava’s “innovative technique,” which she credits for her large family, Suleman also admits to regret. She now wishes she had sued the doctor, believing his insurance could have provided crucial financial support for her family. “I regret that I kind of threw myself under the bus to cover for him,” she stated.
Suleman did take legal action against the hospital for privacy violations after staff leaked her personal information, claiming they were responsible for her unwanted publicity. She also explained her desire for a large family stemmed from her own experience as an only child, though she admitted her family grew larger than intended.