A controversy has been sparked in Brazil regarding the appropriate age for childbirth, following the case of a 61-year-old woman expecting her first baby.
This woman, whose identity has been kept private, has gained attention from local media. Married to a 38-year-old man, she is post-menopausal and conceived using a donor egg. Her due date is set for November.
“I had already gone through menopause…my husband wanted to be a father. I wanted to be a mother too. I am in great health…and I have undergone a very thorough medical clearance,” she explained.
The woman mentioned that she does not intend to inform her future daughter about using a donor egg for her pregnancy.
Brazil has witnessed other late-in-life pregnancies before. Notably, on September 9, a 52-year-old woman became a first-time mother to twins, her husband being 88 years old.
Health officials in Brazil have expressed concern regarding an increasing number of late-in-life pregnancies, which could place significant strain on the bodies of some older mothers.
However, there are currently no established age limits for artificial insemination; doctors are advised not to proceed if significant risks for the mother or child are present.
by Sasha Dubronitz
