"My Son Has Returned": 62-Year-Old Chinese Woman Becomes Pregnant Through IVF

[Financial News] In China, news has surfaced that a woman in her 60s, who lost her only son in an unexpected accident, has become pregnant via IVF. The story has attracted significant attention locally.
On the 7th, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that a woman living in Songyuan, Jilin Province, has drawn attention after her sister shared the pregnancy journey of 62-year-old Ms. A. After losing her only son in January last year, Ms. A was overcome with grief and decided to undergo IVF, ultimately succeeding in conceiving a child.
In a video released at the end of December last year, Ms. A shared, "It seems the baby will arrive a little earlier than expected," adding, "The baby kicks often. When I eat sweet foods, the fetus seems to become more active."
Due to the traditional preference for sons in China, disclosing the gender of a fetus is legally prohibited. Regarding this, Ms. A said, "People say that craving sweets means the baby is a boy. This child is my son returned to me," expressing her deep affection for the unborn baby.
Ms. A's younger sister stated that, due to her sister's advanced age, she undergoes prenatal checkups much more frequently than younger expectant mothers, and she accompanies her to these appointments. On days when important tests are scheduled, they reportedly travel from their home in Songyuan to a major hospital in Changchun, the capital of Jilin Province, about 170 kilometers away.
Medical experts have voiced concerns. Dr. Chen Min, an obstetrician at Harbin No. 1 Hospital in Heilongjiang Province, noted, "In principle, we do not recommend pregnancy at such an advanced age. The risk of complications during pregnancy is several times higher than for younger mothers." She further explained, "Natural childbirth is virtually impossible, so a cesarean section is inevitable, and the surgery itself is considered high-risk."
The story has sparked debate among local internet users. Some criticized the decision, saying, "If the parents pass away, the child will become an orphan at a young age," and called it a "selfish choice." Others, however, defended Ms. A, stating, "People need something to hold on to in life. A child gives meaning and motivation to live."
As the controversy continued, Ms. A's younger sister appealed, "No one can understand my sister's decision. No one can comprehend the pain of losing an only son."


hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter