Ms. Lan, at 48 years old, decided to have in vitro fertilization (IVF) to have more children to avoid feeling lonely as her daughter and granddaughter lived far away. She visited the Center for Reproductive Support at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi for the procedure with her husband. Despite the risks explained by the doctor, they proceeded with the treatment to have another child.
While Ms. Lan was open to having another child despite being a grandmother, her relatives raised concerns about her age and the potential health risks for both the child and herself. Despite the initial challenges, the doctor was able to retrieve one egg through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and create a viable embryo after preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to screen for abnormalities.
After monitoring and preparing Ms. Lan’s uterine lining for the embryo transfer, she successfully underwent the procedure but faced complications during her pregnancy including threatened miscarriages, high blood pressure, and gestational diabetes. Despite these challenges, she delivered a healthy baby girl through an emergency cesarean section.
Dr. Le Hoang, the Director of IVF Tam Anh, highlighted the increasing trend of middle-aged individuals seeking assisted reproductive treatments to have more children. While the risks of pregnancy and childbirth increase with age, advancements in assisted reproductive technologies like IVF have provided opportunities for older individuals to realize their dreams of parenthood.
Dr. Hoang emphasized the importance of understanding and considering the risks associated with pregnancy at an older age, including chromosomal disorders, pregnancy complications, and birth defects. He advised older women to prepare mentally, physically, and financially for the process and seek treatment early to mitigate risks and improve success rates.
In conclusion, Ms. Lan’s journey of IVF and pregnancy at 48 years old serves as a testament to the advances in assisted reproductive technologies and the complexities older individuals may face when pursuing parenthood. By being informed and proactive, individuals can navigate the challenges of pregnancy at an older age and increase their chances of a successful outcome.