Model Rhian Sugden has spoken out about being 'mum-shamed' for her OnlyFans account, which she uses to fund expensive IVF treatment. The 36-year-old former Page 3 star and her husband, Coronation Street actor Oliver Mellor, are currently undertaking their eighth round of IVF.
Speaking to the Mirror, Sugden revealed the financial burden of fertility treatment: 'It's expensive, it's like £15,000 per go. We had one round free with the NHS but, the other seven, not so much.' She explained that her OnlyFans income is essential to cover these costs, adding: 'If I'm not working, I can't afford this.'
Despite receiving supportive messages from a community of women in similar situations, Sugden faces criticism from some online. 'People will mum-shame me, even though I'm not a mum, for being on OnlyFans,' she said. 'My money is solely going on IVF at the moment.'
Sugden, who found fame on Page 3, defended her career choice. She said she is 'forever proud' of being part of that era, noting that it led to meeting her husband. Her OnlyFans content, she added, is 'tamer than the magazines were,' and Oliver often acts as her photographer.
The couple are currently in the middle of their eighth IVF round. Sugden has formed a support network with others going through similar experiences, communicating via WhatsApp, though she has never met them in person. 'Eighth time lucky hopefully,' she said.
