Stacey Solomon's followers got a surprise when the star posted a series of photos showing her pregnancy journeys over the years. Fans who logged into Instagram on Monday night were taken aback to see an image of Stacey standing in front of a window, tenderly cradling her baby bump and gazing lovingly at her belly.

Followers thought Stacey was pregnant again, but the TV personality was simply reflecting on the reality that she has been a mother for half of her life, after welcoming her first son Zachary when she was just 18 in 2008 with her ex-boyfriend David Cox. Stacey then had her second child, Leighton, in 2012 with her former fiance Aaron Barnham. Since then, Stacey has had three children with her husband, ex-EastEnders actor Joe Swash.

In 2019, the pair welcomed their son Rex before Stacey gave birth to her first daughter, Rose Opal, in October 2021 at their home while surrounded by loved ones.

Just two years later, she welcomed a second daughter, Belle. As part of her post, Stacey shared a series of pictures with her children where the Solomon-Swash clan beamed while taking selfies and posing for photos on the beach during a massive family holiday.

The former X Factor star spoke about her motherhood journey, saying: "Realised yesterday I've been a mother for half of my whole life. It's my biggest achievement. My proudest accomplishment. You are my world Zach, Leighton, Rex, Rose and Belle. Happy Mother's Day to every single mumma, mother figure, carer out there. You are incredible. Never question just what an amazing job you're doing. Every day you show up no matter what, however you can.", reports the Mirror.

She continued: "Thinking of anyone who finds mother's day a really difficult day. And to any mum out there who hasn't heard it in a while. You're f***ing smashing it. Even on the days you think you're at your worst. You are still their EVERYTHING."

The star's post received an outpouring of affection from followers who were initially tricked by Stacey's baby bump.

"I thought this was a pregnancy announcement, I got so excited," admitted a fan. A disenchanted second wrote: "I feel guilty for being disappointed!" A third commented: "How many people won't read the caption and think baby number 6 is on the way. Gorgeous post Stacey, you're a wonderful mummy. Hope you enjoyed your day yesterday."

A fourth chimed in: "Agree people just look at pictures and assume," Followed by a fifth who declared: "Omg I thought you were having another baby. You are an incredible mummy and can't wait to watch your new TV show."

An attentive fan said: "Bloody hell I thought you've kept that well hidden. But I do read the captions! Best mamma," adding to the stream of praises.

Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash previously opened up about their romance during a lighthearted chat on Scott Mills' BBC Radio 2. After first crossing paths on I'm A Celebrity, the pair only turned from friends to lovers seven years later and Joe cheekily revealed he "stuck one on her."

When it comes to expanding their already bustling brood, Stacey's put her foot down. Discussing their new BBC show, she made it clear: "Joe would like me to be a baby machine, which I have been for the last five years."

And despite Joe's wish for "one more" Stacey firmly declared: "I quit! My pelvic floor is in shambles. It's screaming at me. I can't."