How old is the oldest surrogate mother?

The oldest surrogate mother on record is Anastassia Ontou, a 67-year-old Greek grandmother who gave birth to her daughter’s baby in 2016, making her the oldest known surrogate in the world. This remarkable case highlights the possibilities of surrogacy at an advanced age, although it is essential to note that such cases are extremely rare and typically involve careful medical evaluation and fertility treatment.

Introduction to Surrogacy and Age Limits

Surrogacy is a complex and highly regulated process, with various age limits and requirements in place to ensure the health and well-being of both the surrogate and the baby. In general, surrogacy agencies and fertility clinics prefer to work with surrogates between the ages of 21 and 45, although some may consider older candidates in exceptional circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions about Surrogacy and Age

General Surrogacy Questions

1. What is the maximum age to be a surrogate?: While there is no strict maximum age limit, carriers must be of legal age and preferably between the ages of 21 and 45 years. Certain situations may dictate the use of a carrier older than 45 years of age, but all parties involved must be informed about the potential risks of pregnancy with advancing maternal age.
2. Has a 70-year-old woman had a baby?: Yes, Jivunben Rabari from India gave birth to a healthy baby boy at the age of 70, conceived via IVF treatment.
3. Who is the oldest IVF mother?: Erramatti Mangayamma from India holds the record for the oldest IVF mother, giving birth to twin girls at the age of 74.

Surrogacy and Age-Related Questions

4. Can a 60-year-old woman be a surrogate?: While extremely rare, it is theoretically possible for a 60-year-old woman to be a surrogate, but this would require approval from a fertility clinic and careful evaluation of the potential risks.
5. What disqualifies you from being a surrogate?: Factors such as financial difficulties, serious health concerns, and criminal background can disqualify someone from being a surrogate.
6. Is 65 too old to be a surrogate?: Generally, yes, as most surrogacy professionals abide by the recommendations from the ASRM, which state that a gestational surrogate should be no older than 45 years.

Pregnancy and Fertility Questions

7. Can a 70-year-old get pregnant?: While natural pregnancy is highly unlikely at this age, IVF treatment with donor eggs can increase! the chances of pregnancy.
8. Can a 65-year-old woman get pregnant naturally?: Natural pregnancy is extremely unlikely after menopause, but IVF treatment may be an option.
9. What is the oldest woman to have a baby with her own eggs?: A 46-year-old woman from Orlando holds the record for the oldest woman to have a baby using her own fresh eggs through IVF treatment.

Surrogacy and Pregnancy Records

10. What is the longest pregnancy ever recorded?: The longest recorded pregnancy lasted 375 days, with the baby being born almost 100 days overdue.
11. Who has the most kids in the world?: Valentina Vassilyeva from Russia holds the record for the most children born to one woman, with an astonishing 69 children.
12. Who was the youngest person to have a baby?: Lina Marcela Medina from Peru is the youngest confirmed mother in history, giving birth at just 5 years and 7 months old.

Surrogacy Compensation and Requirements

13. How much money do surrogates make?: The average compensation for surrogates can range from $60,000 to $92,000, depending on experience and individual arrangements.
14. How many times can you be a surrogate?: While there is no strict limit, it is generally recommended that surrogates do not exceed 6 pregnancies in total.
15. Can you keep the baby if you’re a surrogate?: No, in most cases, the surrogate is legally required to hand the baby over to the intended parents, making it essential to have clear legal agreements in place.