In 2005, Adriana Iliescu, at the age of 66, became one of the oldest mothers ever recorded when she gave birth to her daughter, Eliza Marie. Utilizing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and undergoing a C-section delivery, Iliescu’s pregnancy was initially with twins, but sadly, one of the fetuses didn’t survive due to heart problems.

Eliza Marie was born approximately six weeks premature, weighing only 1.4 kilograms, less than half of the typical baby weight. Despite the challenges, both mother and child were allowed to return home after about six weeks of recovery.

Iliescu’s decision to have a child at such an advanced age drew criticism from medical specialists, considering potential harm to the elderly woman. Some expressed concerns about the ethical aspects of a mother being old enough to be her daughter’s great-grandmother.

Richard Kennedy, a spokesman for the British Fertility Society, called the decision “completely irresponsible.” Additionally, the Romanian Orthodox Church condemned the move, labeling it “selfish.”

Iliescu defended her choice, stating that becoming a mother was always her ultimate goal. She had been working toward it for years, attempting fertility treatments since 1995. Despite her age, Iliescu claimed to feel energetic and healthy, expressing her joy over having Eliza Marie.

As of the last known information, Adriana Iliescu would be 83, and Eliza Marie would be 17. The case of Iliescu is no longer the oldest recorded instance of childbirth, as Carmela Bousada, a Spanish woman, gave birth to twin sons at the age of 66 in 2006.