The effect of ageing on natural and artificial reproduction

Infertility as one of individual and social dilemmas sometimes result in significant expenditures, it also might weaken the family stability. Recent developments in assisted reproductive technologies have enabled the infertile couples to become pregnant. Although these methods were initially used only for women in premenopausal age, gamete donation has brought about the possibility of treating women beyond the age of menopause. In this article an attempt will be made to consider effects of ageing on natural and artificial reproduction. In this descriptive-analytic study we compare different views and policies relevant to various aspects of pregnancy in the aged. First we describe the changes in reproductive ability during the lifespan and the effect of ageing on the results of assisted reproductive technologies. This is discussed from medical, social and psychological points of view. Finally by regarding the different studies and the current status of Iranian society, we evaluate the access of middle-aged women to assisted reproductive technologies.

Our study displays the differences in policies defining an age limit and the results of donation in different societies. These policies differ based on the level of access to social welfare, supportive services, life expectancy and the medical, financial and social status of each individual. Regarding Iran’s current social standing, it is emphasized to limit the reproductive treatments to the age of fifty. There is a possibility that some individuals might be included in a younger or older age depending on their medical, financial and social situations and after a thorough and timely counseling. It is also essential to educate all advanced-aged women on the issues related to child-bearing in middle age and the likely consequences.