Ethical considerations regarding the age limit for fertility in assisted reproductive treatments for elderly patients
10.3760/cma.j.cn101441-20241130-00449
- VernacularTitle:高龄患者在助孕治疗中生育年龄限制的伦理考量
- Author:
Xuechen SUN
1
;
Ling NIE
;
Dingfei XU
;
Qiongfang WU
Author Information
1. 南昌大学第一附属医院生殖医学中心，南昌 330006
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Reproductive technology, assisted;
Advanced maternal age;
Ethics
- From:
Chinese Journal of Reproduction and Contraception
2025;45(4):333-336
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
In recent years, as societal perceptions have evolved and women's social standing has improved, the average age of childbearing for women in China has generally increased. This shift has contributed to a notable decline in fertility rates among Chinese women. The introduction of the "three-child" policy and the inclusion of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in medical insurance coverage across many regions have further fueled the rapid rise in demand for ART among older women. However, numerous high-level evidence-based medical studies have confirmed that age remains a critical factor influencing the success rates of ART treatments. Many older women seeking pregnancy assistance, particularly than aged 43 years and above, continue to experience unsatisfactory outcomes despite multiple attempts at ART. Therefore, considering the principles of beneficence, protection of offspring, and social welfare, and in light of relevant domestic and international guidelines, consensus, policies, regulations, and research data, should there be an age limit for high-aged patients undergoing ART treatments? This issue warrants a thorough ethical examination.
