Context

Recently, the Union Health Ministry has sought a report from the Government of Punjab concerning the IVF treatment undergone by the Parents of a late noted celebritiy.

About In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

• Egg Retrieval-Fertilization-Embryo Transfer: 
  • IVF is a method of assisted reproduction in which the woman’s eggs and man’s sperm are fertilized outside the body in a lab. 
  • This fertilized egg (embryo) is then transferred in the woman’s womb where they stick in the uterine lining and grow.
• IVF Purpose:  Due its highest success rates, it is a beacon of hope for individuals or couples grappling with infertility challenges,offering a pathway to parenthood.
• Considerations for IVF: Reproductive history, maternal age, cause of infertility, and lifestyle habits.
• Other Applications of IVF: It addresses a range of infertility issues such as damaged fallopian tubes, ovulation disorders, male infertility and other genetic disorders.
• Age Limit for IVF Treatment: The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) (Regulation) Act, 2021, dictates the age limits for IVF treatment in India.
  • For Women:  between 21 and 50 years & For Men between 21 and 55 years.

Why did the Union Health Ministry Intervene in this Case?

• Couple’s Breaches Age Bracket: Due to the couple’s age exceeding the age brackets stipulated by the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act 
  • Since the mother was 58 years old and the father was 60 years old, they were clearly beyond these age limits set by the legislation.
• Breaches Age limits for egg and sperm donation as these are biological factors in ensuring successful reproductive outcomes.

Other Issues Regarding Age limit for IVF Treatment 

Medical & Health Issues: 

• Effect of Aging on Fertility Drug Response: As women age, the quality of their eggs declines & it also affects how the body responds to fertility drugs, impacting IVF effectiveness. 
• Chromosomal Abnormalities: Without donor eggs, there’s a heightened risk of chromosomal abnormalities in embryos, posing risks to both mother and child. 
• Complications During Pregnancy: 
  • Aged lifestyle conditions :Older women are more likely to have lifestyle conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which can complicate pregnancy. 
  • Increased risk of developing gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. 
  • Other Associated Risks : Preterm labor, premature rupture of membrane, and a higher likelihood of miscarriage.

Social Considerations: 

• Elderly Parents and Toddler Energy Levels:Elderly parents may struggle to keep up with a toddler’s energy levels, impacting their ability to parent effectively. 
• Higher Likelihood of Parental Passing: They may face challenges in relating to other parents of young children and may have a higher likelihood of passing away when the child is young.