Lagos, Nigeria – Margaret Attenua, a 68-year-old Nigerian woman, has defied the odds by giving birth to twins this week, after years of attempting to conceive. The extraordinary pregnancy, which occurred at an advanced age, has garnered attention and admiration worldwide.
The dangers associated with pregnancy at an older age are well-documented, as women’s fertility declines and the risks of complications increase. However, Margaret Attenua’s determination and optimism prevailed. Her story stands as a testament to the power of hope and resilience.
While discussions of older mothers often refer to women between the ages of 45 and 49, Margaret Attenua has surpassed those boundaries. Her delivery of twins at 68 years old is a rare occurrence and showcases her exceptional courage and strength.
Before successfully giving birth, Margaret Attenua underwent three in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, according to her 77-year-old husband, Noah Adenuga. Despite several failed attempts, the couple, who married in 1974, never gave up on their dream of having a child. Their unwavering dedication and belief in their particular dream have finally come to fruition.
Dr. Annihila Okinawa, the medical professional who oversaw the pregnancy, explained that a specialized team was assembled at Lagos University Teaching Hospital to closely monitor Margaret Attenua’s progress. The twins were safely delivered via Cesarean section at 37 weeks, ensuring the best outcome for both mother and babies. The hospital delayed the public announcement to allow the first-time mother adequate time to recover.
Margaret Attenua’s pregnancy was considered high-risk due to her advanced age, first-time mother status, and the fact that she was carrying twins. However, the medical team was able to effectively manage the risks and bring the pregnancy to full term. The successful delivery is seen as a significant achievement in Nigeria, where safe deliveries of twins are not always guaranteed.
Interestingly, Margaret Attenua is not the only grandmother to have given birth in her sixties. In November, a woman in China made headlines after giving birth to a healthy baby girl at the age of 67. In that instance, the woman conceived spontaneously and underwent self-administered Chinese reproductive therapies, which further amazed doctors. The condition of her ovaries, resembling those of a woman 20 years her junior, played a role in her ability to conceive naturally.
Although older women can achieve pregnancy through assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF, medical professionals stress the importance of informing women about the potential risks associated with pregnancy at advanced ages. Age-related medical risks, including the possibility of preterm birth, must be taken into account when considering pregnancies in older women.
Margaret Attenua’s remarkable journey to motherhood serves as an inspiration to many, defying societal norms and demonstrating the power of perseverance. Her story highlights the significance of hope and determination, reminding us that it is never too late to fulfill our dreams.