70-year-old woman gives birth to twins

In a groundbreaking event, 70-year-old Safina Namukwaya has given birth to twins in Uganda, marking her as one of the world’s oldest mothers. The historic delivery took place on November 29 at the Women’s Hospital International and Fertility Center in Kampala.

Namukwaya, who already has a daughter born through in vitro fertilization (IVF) at the same facility in 2020, underwent fertility treatment to conceive her twins. Due to her age, the procedure involved the use of donor eggs and her partner’s sperm, ensuring the best possible conditions for a successful pregnancy.

Dr. Edward Tamale Sali, Namukwaya’s fertility specialist, shared that the twins were born at 31 weeks, with each baby weighing over 3 pounds. Despite the challenges associated with pregnancies at an advanced age, Namukwaya expressed her joy and gratitude, stating, “I feel great. Some might argue that 70 years is old, but God decided that I get to have twins at 70. There is no one that can put a limit on God’s authority and power.”

This remarkable feat follows the global trend of increasing age in first-time mothers, thanks to advancements in fertility treatments. However, it has also sparked discussions on the ethical considerations surrounding pregnancies at an advanced age.

Dr. Brian Levine, a practice director at CCRM fertility clinic in New York City, described the pregnancy as “irresponsible” due to potential risks such as hypertension, gestational diabetes, and preterm labor that older mothers may face. Concerns also extend to the well-being of the children, who might experience developmental delays if their parents encounter health complications.

Namukwaya’s story sheds light on the evolving landscape of fertility treatments, allowing more women to pursue motherhood at later stages in life. While celebrations surround the arrival of the twins, the ethical dimensions of such pregnancies raise important questions about the intersection of medical advancements and responsible reproductive choices.

The global medical community continues to navigate the evolving landscape of assisted reproductive technologies, prompting discussions on the boundaries of fertility treatments and the potential impacts on both mothers and their children.