Former Morning Musume member Tsujimoto Natsumi, aged 37, has announced her pregnancy with the couple's fifth child, marking another joyous chapter for the family. On March 3, 2025, Tsujimoto shared the news through her YouTube channel, expressing her excitement and the challenges she faced leading up to this moment.
"I have something to announce to everyone. I am thrilled to share the news of my fifth child. It's such incredible news and I’m very happy!" Tsujimoto radiated joy as she revealed the pregnancy to her followers.
Reflecting on her long-standing desire for another child, she shared, "Since I was around 33 or 34, I really wanted to have five kids, but it was difficult to conceive. I had been undergoing infertility treatments for the past three to four years at the clinic."
Tsujimoto explained the emotional and physical toll the treatments took on her, stating, “It was quite tough due to the side effects from the medication. I began to think maybe it was going to be too difficult.”
Despite earlier uncertainties, the 37-year-old was surprised to learn she was pregnant after deliberations to potentially give up after the busy schedule created by her oldest child’s career. Her daughter Noa recently made her debut, igniting concerns about balancing family and rising professional commitments.
"When I received the news, I was so shocked and excited—I could hardly believe it! I immediately called Taikun and told him. His reaction was, 'No way! Really?'" Tsujimoto recounted the joyous moment when she shared the news with her husband, actor Sugiura Taiyo, 43, who echoed her delight.
Sugiura also shared their happiness on his social media, expressing his excitement. "We have been granted another precious life. The health of Natsumi has stabilized, making it the right moment to share this news. Our family is overjoyed, and we will support one another through this unique experience," he wrote.
The couple has been married since June 2007 and welcomed their children consecutively: their eldest, Noa, arrived on November 11 of the same year, followed by Sei on December 10, Sora on March 13, 2013, and their youngest, Koa, born on December 18, 2018. Each child has contributed to the dynamic atmosphere of the household, which is now anticipating the arrival of its fifth member.
Fans have reacted overwhelmingly positively to the news. Comments flooded their social media channels with messages of congratulations. "Truly amazing! I can’t believe it—congratulations!" read one comment. Another added, "I can’t wait to follow the adventures of the Sugiura family!"
During the announcement, Tsujimoto acknowledged the challenges of older motherhood, noting, "It’s important to take care of my body and prioritize the health of our new baby as much as possible." She emphasized the need for cautious optimism as she enters this new phase of her pregnancy.
She has kept her first child, Noa, well informed about her treatment and the pregnancy. "Noa was thrilled when she learned about the baby; she cried out of joy when I told her," Tsujimoto reflected.
While excited about the future addition to the family, Tsujimoto admitted her concerns surrounding the pregnancy, especially considering her age. "I feel different this time around compared to my previous pregnancies. I know I have to take extra care, as there will be many challenges both during and after the birth, but my primary goal is to deliver a healthy baby."
Fans quickly rallied around her with encouraging messages, eager to support the family as they enter this exciting new chapter.
Tsujimoto's experience resonates with many, as discussions around fertility and high-risk pregnancies are becoming more prevalent. With her candid communication, she has opened up discussions about women's health and the importance of supporting each other through various life stages.
Reflecting on her family’s evolution, Tsujimoto concluded, "I’m so grateful for all the support I’ve had, and I am so excited for what’s to come. I’ll focus on ensuring the health of both myself and the baby and share this wonderful experience with my family who is all excited to welcome our new addition."