It was a difficult yet rewarding year for content creator Lottie Bie.
The TikTok star shared on Instagram the health challenges she has faced since January while trying to conceive a child, which also explains her reduced presence online.
“This is why I haven't been so active this year," shared Lottie on Instagram.
"God, my husband, and I were busy building our little bee.
"Yes I have a husband. Always had one. I just really like keeping my private life ... private."
LOTTIE BIE'S TOUGH JOURNEY TO MOTHERHOOD
Bearing a child, however, was not easy for Lottie due to numerous health issues, including stage 3 endometriosis, adenomyosis, and having only a single fallopian tube.
Mayo Clinic describes endometriosis as an "often-painful condition in which tissue that is similar to the inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus" and "often affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining the pelvis."
Adenomyosis, meanwhile, is defined by the Cleveland Clinic as a condition where "tissue from the lining of the uterus grows into the uterine wall" and can cause the "uterus to double or triple in size."
Its symptoms include heavy periods, cramping, and painful intercourse, and "typically treated with medication or surgery."
All these conditions, compounded by necessary medical procedures and resulting physical discomfort, have caused her significant anxiety and pain.
"I was told we can't or that it'll be hard — having a baby of our own," Lottie recalled being informed by her doctor.
Lottie was grateful to her ob-gyn for helping and guiding her throughout the entire ordeal.
"She's been there from the very start. In diagnosing me, surgery, saving my one good tube, helping us conceive naturally, pregnancy, delivery and beyond," wrote Lottie.
"All of it, God orchestrated."
HOPES TO INSPIRE OTHERS
Lottie is sharing her story to serve as an inspiration to others who are struggling with infertility.
For Lottie, her faith in God made what once seemed impossible possible.
She encourages those in similar situations to continue believing and to keep their faith.
"I started this year with endometriosis and adenomyosis," remarked Lottie.
"We're concluding the year with our very own Christmas miracle — our little bee
"And no endometriosis.
"This is our story, our testimony, of the grace of our wonderful God!"