The Ticking Clock: Male Fertility and Age

Men’s fertility is the least discussed topic but it holds significant importance. Sperm quality decline is gradual and it may impose higher risks in pregnancy.  Having an understanding of this fact helps couples to make informed choices about when to start planning a family.

The Underestimated Factor: Paternal Age Matters

• Lesser known but real fact is that male fertility is affected by age.
• Female fertility and reproductive age is well documented but male age also impacts chances of pregnancy and health of the baby.
• The “advanced age” for men is less defined (35-50), but risks increase.

The Decline: How Age Impacts Male Fertility

• Reduced Conception Rates:

Studies show that there is a significant decline in conception rate after 40. Another study conducted in 2020 confirms that 30% less men are likely to reproduce after 40 as compared to those under 30 years.

• Declining Sperm Quality:

With age the semen volume, sperm count and movability and hold of shape of sperm starts decreasing. A surge in risk of damage to the sperm’s DNA also occurs. Lower testosterone, reduced blood flow, testicular changes, prostate issues as well as other age related health factors are linked to ageing as well and they potentially affect fertility.

The Risks: Beyond Conception

• Increased Pregnancy Complications:

Statistically there is a significantly higher risk of miscarriage or fetal death that may occur due to the afore-mentioned conditions.

• Potential Health Issues in Offspring:

If the pregnancy goes through still there remains a rare risk of mental health problems in the child of fathers above 40, significantly there is a likelihood of Autism Spectrum Disorder, schizophrenia and other mental health disorders.

• Increased baby health issues at birth:

These conditions listed can impose increased likelihood of NICU admission, premature births, seizures, low weight at birth of the child or gestational diabetes in the mother.

The Science: Genetic Mutations and Sperm

• Continuous Sperm Production:

Since, men continuously produce new sperm cells throughout life starting from puberty; it is an ongoing process of cell mutations. This process overtime leads to an elevated risk of Genetic Mutations, eventually increasing the likelihood of Skeletal Dysplasia (abnormal bone development), Dwarfism syndrome and Craniosynostosis Syndrome (Premature skull fusion).

• Genetic Mutation Concerns:

Mostly the mutations are harmless but sometimes a subset can end up causing the development of genetic conditions. However, testing are available but detailed screenings are challenging.

The Solutions: Addressing Male Infertility

• Semen Analysis:

If pregnancy is under consideration at a later age then semen analysis can be conducted that evaluates sperm volume, motility and shape.

• Fertility Treatments:

In the case of later age pregnancies there are potential interventions, some of them are mentioned hereby:

• In-vitro Fertilization (IVF)
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
• Microsurgery to repair or repair the Vas Deferens
• Sperm Banking
• Testosterone therapy
• Erectile dysfunction treatment

• Consulting Professionals:

It is always the best resort to seek medical counseling. There are male infertility clinics that offer counseling, specialized support and resources.

• The Takeaway: Informed Choices

• Fertility and child’s health is significantly impacted by the father’s age
• There is a need of understanding the risks that might follow and taking informed and proactive decisions.
• Consultation with the healthcare professional is a must for personalized advice.
• Do not ignore the clock, get informed.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3253726

https://www.yourfertility.org.au/everyone/health-medical/healthy-sperm

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/placental-abruption

Disclaimer:This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The Health Zenith is not offering advice, recommending or endorsing any specific prescription drug, pharmacy or other information on the site. The Health Zenith provides no warranty for any information. Please seek medical advice before starting, changing or terminating any medical treatment.