Is 60 too old to become a parent?

Sir, As the mother of an IVF child I wrestled hard with the issues you consider in your leading article (“Mother load” , Jan 18). Like many who suspend moral certainty when confronted with the alternative of great personal loss, I justified my eventual decision to give birth in my mid-40s as being “at the last reasonable moment”.

I was certain of one thing, however. There is no right to bear a child at any age. Having a child is a privilege. It is right that a society that believes itself compassionate should provide medical help to those who cannot have children but that does not imply a right to have children, however passionate the parents’ desire may be.

L. Smith

London NW6

Sir, I read your leading article several times but could not find any comment about men over 60 becoming fathers. If I or Rachida Dati return to work within days of birth we are vilified. If a man does, he is not. If a man over 60 has a child his fertility is commented upon and praise heaped upon him. A woman is criticised.