Reality TV star and actress Jess Impiazzi, known from MTV’s Ex on the Beach, is preparing to welcome her first child, a baby boy, in May 2026 with partner Sam Bird. The 36-year-old has navigated a challenging pregnancy marked by her autoimmune condition, lupus, and previous infertility concerns following IVF treatments.

Intense Monitoring Due to Lupus Risks

Impiazzi undergoes scans every two weeks because of lupus-related complications. She faces a rare risk of fetal heart block linked to a Ro antibody, affecting about 1% of lupus patients.

“I have to be checked every two weeks because of my lupus,” Impiazzi explains. “The baby’s heartbeat has to be monitored because I’m at risk of this scary thing called fetal heart block due to something called a Ro antibody.”

The first and second trimesters proved stressful, with Impiazzi panicking if she couldn’t feel the baby moving. Now at seven months, she reports feeling calmer as movements are constant. Doctors note the baby is slightly smaller, a common effect of her condition and medications, but otherwise healthy.

IVF Journey and Partner Support

After fertility struggles tied to lupus, the couple turned to IVF. Impiazzi shared the news on Instagram in January 2026, calling it a ‘miracle’ despite the tough road.

She informed Sam Bird early in their relationship about potential IVF needs, and he has remained supportive. “I told Sam from the minute we met that I had problems and would probably have to do IVF,” she says.

During treatments, Bird surprised her with his needle phobia, turning pale during injections. Yet, he provides constant care, including pregnancy massages and foot rubs to keep her relaxed.

Post-IVF, they vacationed before testing, spotting a faint positive line. Confirming it days later brought joyful shock. Impiazzi describes their bond as secure, allowing her to be herself fully. She aims to raise their son to respect women, viewing Bird as an ideal role model.

Thriving Acting Career Amid Motherhood Prep

Impiazzi, who appeared on Celebrity Big Brother in 2018, has shifted to acting with roles in indie films and BBC’s Strike. Her latest project, the psychological horror-thriller Jitters, involves a detective probing a death connected to an AI video game. She plays Tiffany Bowman, a game player whose help raises AI identity questions.

“I pop up to try and help him solve things – but is it really me, or is it AI, pretending to be me?” she teases. Filming in an abandoned Tube station added creepiness, though safety concerns arose barefoot on set.

Transitioning from reality TV brought underestimation, but Impiazzi persists. “People change so much in ten years. Sometimes it feels like you’re not allowed to grow, especially as a woman,” she reflects.

Currently pausing work for motherhood, she plans a flexible return, confident in Bird’s support. Jitters is available now on digital platforms from Reel 2 Reel Films.