A mother who was unaware she was pregnant gave birth while camping after mistaking cramps for a ‘dodgy takeaway’. Zoe Doyle, from Maidenhead, Berkshire, was left astonished when her husband noticed a baby’s head protruding from her during a camping trip to Hayling Island, Hampshire, on August 1. Despite having no pregnancy symptoms, regular periods, and even traveling to Turkey two months before the surprise birth, Zoe gave birth to a healthy baby girl, Hayley Doyle, weighing 8lbs 14oz.
The 38-year-old nursery worker initially attributed her stomach cramps to a ‘dodgy chicken takeaway’ but soon suspected a miscarriage as the pains intensified. Her husband, Stuart Doyle, helped deliver the baby in the tent before rushing them to the hospital. Zoe described the experience as surreal, stating, “I just stood up and my husband asked if I was okay and I said ‘I need to push’ then I leaned on all fours and my husband saw a head.”
Reflecting on her hidden pregnancy, Zoe admitted to experiencing no classic symptoms and continued with her routine without any significant changes. She recalled, “There was no morning sickness, there was no nausea, there was nothing. It really was a hidden pregnancy.” Despite the unexpected arrival, Zoe believes her daughter fits perfectly into their family and views her birth as a miraculous surprise.
Hayley Doyle was named after the place of her unexpected birth, and Zoe shared her disbelief at not realising she was pregnant sooner. She expressed gratitude for her baby’s safe arrival and the unique story Hayley will have to share as she grows up. Zoe’s hidden pregnancy and surprise delivery have left her and her family with a remarkable and heartwarming tale to cherish for a lifetime.