According to the latest revision of the greek legislation in 2022, and with reference to the age limit for women using assisted reproduction treatments, it is now possible for a woman to undergo IVF treatment until the age of 54.

The wish for a child is an essential part of reproductive autonomy and every woman has a right to get medical help in realising this. 

It is clear that advances in obstetric medicine have made it possible to deal with increased maternal morbidity in these women, as maternal complications are expected to be higher in older age groups. 

Still, it is the individual woman who should evaluate risks and benefits, in a shared-decision-making model following extensive counseling by health care professionals.

Requests for assisted reproduction treatment are likely to increase in advanced maternal ages, not only from national but also from international patients, in the context of what is known as cross border reproductive care.

We are clearly in need for more research on evaluating the psychosocial impact of a pregnancy in the post-menopause in women of advanced age, as well as ways to ensure the future well being and psychosocial health of the child. 

As legislation adapts to meet women’s expectations and respect their reproductive autonomy, it is becoming mandatory for health care professionals in the field of assisted reproduction to screen, counsel and support adequately women in this extremely challenging and rapidly evolving field of assisted reproduction.

©2021, Nicholas Christoforidis, Fertility Matters
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