A Place in the Sun and I'm a Celebrity star Scarlette Douglas opens up on being criticised for freezing her eggs

The majority of big-name celebrities seemingly prefer to remain tight-lipped about the complexities surrounding fertility.

Having previously been a taboo topic, kept majorly away from the discussion of the public, issues surrounding the struggles or inability to conceive a child were rarely discussed in the entertainment sector.

That said, A Place in the Sun star Scarlette Douglas is breaking down boundaries when it comes to fertility treatment, and isn't afraid to share her egg freezing journey with the world.

The 36-year-old recently travelled to Barbados to visit a fertility clinic, revealing on social media she'd found the experience 'eye-opening'.

Delving into the reasoning behind her decision, the former I'm A Celebrity star claimed that approaching her late 30s triggered her concern over when exactly the right time is to welcome a child.

With that in mind, Scarlette decided it was best to cover all bases when it comes to preparing to become a parent later in life, and decided to freeze her eggs.

Taking to Instagram, however, the on-screen star revealed she's actually faced some unexpected backlash since making her courageous decision.

Penning a lengthy statement in the caption, she wrote: "I learnt so much about my eggs and the process of vitrification at the @barbadosivf. I really wish this was something taught to me when I was younger or at least spoken about in more depth.

"Yes my aunty and friends had encouraged me to do it in my younger years, but I didn’t for one second think it would be something I would need to consider, let alone think about back then, but who knew 37 would come around so quickly?!"

Scarlette went on: "I really should have taken action when they first said it all those years ago. I can’t turn the clock back now, but I can move forward as quickly as possible (of course armed with the new knowledge I now have) and not wait a minute longer to protect my future offspring."

In the video attached, the 36-year-old disclosed why she opted for the particular Caribbean clinic she did, explaining: "I chose this clinic initially because of the sound advice that I got from a good friend of mine. It is a popular clinic."

"It has some of the world’s most experienced doctors and nurses. A brilliant success rate and it’s in Barbados," she went on to tease. "You know I like the sunshine. I’m thinking Caribbean heat, yes please. I’m there!"

Discussing the mass paperwork, medical examinations and preliminary treatments she went through to start the egg freezing process, she thanked the clinic's staff - as well as her loved ones - for their support.

Despite the initial criticism that Scarlette shut down in her video, thousands of fans were quick to heap praise onto the on-screen star for removing taboos on fertility treatment.

"This is absolutely amazing," one penned. "Especially as it is an area that is shied away from. Unfortunately, women have so much pressure put upon them... "If you have children too young it's an issue but your window of opportunity ie biological clock starts ticking against you. Well done for spreading awareness and taking the bold step of coming out publicly."

Another went on: "You’re an intelligent lady no need to explain your decision to anyone, I’m 100% sure you will be a great mum good luck to you and well done for thinking ahead."

"Well done Scarlett! Future proof your family xxx," a third added.