Hanh had given birth to four children, but tragically lost two sons at a young age. For several years, she stayed home, caring for her family and yearning for another child. Last year, she visited Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City for infertility treatment. Doctors diagnosed her with submucosal uterine fibroids, affecting her fertility.

The surgical team performing a laparoscopic removal of submucosal uterine fibroids on Hanh. Photo: Thanh Luan

The surgical team performing a laparoscopic removal of submucosal uterine fibroids on Hanh. Photo: Thanh Luan

Dr. Nguyen Ba My Nhi, Director of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, performed a laparoscopic myomectomy to remove the fibroids. Three months later, after her health stabilized, Hanh underwent embryo transfer and successfully conceived on her first attempt. "Hearing the baby's heartbeat, I was overjoyed to be able to become a mother in my fifties," she recalled. However, her pregnancy journey was far from smooth. At nearly 11 weeks, she experienced severe abdominal pain and was hospitalized, diagnosed with acute appendicitis.

Dr. Ngo Thi Binh Lua from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Center explained that appendicitis during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is dangerous, posing potential complications for both mother and baby, including miscarriage, premature birth, and infection. Surgery was unavoidable. "For older pregnant women like Hanh, every complication, no matter how small, can become a major risk," Dr. Lua said.

Hanh underwent her second surgery, a laparoscopic appendectomy. Following the procedure, she experienced signs of a threatened miscarriage and remained hospitalized for eight days under close observation.

The surgical team performing a C-section to help Hanh deliver a healthy baby boy at 50. Photo: Tue Diem

The surgical team performing a C-section to help Hanh deliver a healthy baby boy at 50. Photo: Tue Diem

After leaving the hospital, Hanh continued to face a challenging pregnancy. Due to her age and weakened physical condition, she had to limit physical activity and closely monitor the baby's development. Towards the end of her pregnancy, doctors scheduled a C-section. On 17/6, she gave birth to a healthy baby boy weighing 3.2 kg.

The 50-year-old mother embraces her newborn son. Photo: Tue Diem

The 50-year-old mother embraces her newborn son. Photo: Tue Diem

Hanh is one of two women who have given birth at 50 at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City in the past four years. According to Dr. My Nhi, this age presents numerous physical and psychological risks. Older pregnant women are more susceptible to complications such as placenta previa, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and an increased risk of premature birth and birth defects.

Dr. My Nhi stated that while Hanh's story of giving birth at 50 is inspiring, the journey was fraught with risks and not one everyone should follow. She advises women against pregnancy at an advanced age, recommending early family planning and ideally having two children before the age of 35.

Tue Diem

*Name has been changed.