Starting a family is an important goal for many. People often hear about women and their “biological clock”, and that’s why the focus and pressure almost always stay on them. Men usually receive less attention in these conversations, which creates a belief that their fertility stays the same for life. In reality, men also experience changes in fertility as they grow older. However, their fertility decline is more gradual and less obvious. As a result, many men are still unaware of the issues that arise from male fertility decline with age and the steps that must be carried out to preserve it.
In this article, we’ll learn about the impact of advancing age on male fertility. We’ll also explore ways to help men preserve their fertility.
Sperm health is an important factor upon which successful conception depends. Several parameters, like volume (number of sperm in ejaculated semen), morphology (sperm shape) and motility (sperm’s ability to move), are key indicators of just how healthy the sperm is. In fact, the likelihood of a successful pregnancy may be impacted by even a slight variation in their values.
Men can produce sperm even while in their 70s. However, the quality and quantity of viable sperm will greatly differ from what they would’ve produced in their 20s and 30s.
To better understand what happens to male fertility after 40, here’s a quick look at what happens to sperm health in older men:
Apart from the above sperm health issues, older men also suffer from medical conditions which can add to fertility issues, like hormone imbalances, erectile dysfunction and low libido.
Now that we have understood the effect of age on sperm count, motility and morphology, let’s examine how being older affects the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Compared to younger guys, older men often take longer to conceive with partners. In fact, research indicates that even when their partners are fertile, males over 40 have reduced success rates. As a result, to produce a child, couples will have to make use of assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, particularly if the male spouse is older than 40.
Older paternal age has been linked to a small increase in genetic changes in sperm. These changes can raise the risk of conditions like autism, schizophrenia, and some congenital disorders like Trisomy 21 (Down’s Syndrome), heart conditions, etc., in children.
Pregnancies with fathers over 40 are more likely to experience certain problems, according to research. These include newborns with low birth weight, very preterm births before 32 weeks, and preterm births before 37 weeks. The risk increases with increasing paternal age, even if the overall risk remains low.
Semen analysis is the first & most important test performed to assess male fertility problems. Apart from this, hormonal blood test and scans like transrectal ultrasound and testicular ultrasound may be required, if there are considerable problems with semen analysis, for further evaluation.
Now that we have understood the link between sperm quality and aging, the question arises: Is there any way to ensure that male fertility does not decline with age?
While there is absolutely no way to pause ageing, there are a few practical things that can be done to preserve male fertility.
Excessive use of dangerous substances like alcohol or tobacco can lead to DNA damage in sperm. To ensure the sperm remains healthy, it’s best to avoid or quit the use of such harmful substances.
Obesity can lead to hormone imbalances and low libido. Regular exercise schedules can help maintain a healthy body weight. Apart from that, staying active helps support optimal testosterone levels and even reduces stress. This, in turn, will improve sperm quality.
A nutritious diet is essential to maintain male fertility. A diet that’s rich in important vitamins and minerals, along with antioxidants, can help reverse the effects of ageing on male fertility.
A hectic and stress-filled life can lead to the occurrence of numerous health conditions, like cardiovascular disorders, and not just fertility issues. Long-term stress can lower testosterone, weaken sperm quality, and reduce sexual function. Health problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity become more common with age and can worsen fertility. It’s essential to adopt stress-reduction methods, such as yoga and meditation, to reduce stress.
In order to maintain male fertility, vitamin and mineral deficiencies must be treated as soon as possible. Taking vitamin supplements with antioxidant qualities, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, which increase fertility, can help achieve this.
Excessive heat, especially around the groin area, can reduce sperm production. So, make sure to wear clothes and undergarments that are light and airy and do not trap heat. Moreover, it may be best to limit the use of saunas and hot tubs since these too can interfere with testicular function.
For men in their early to mid-30s who plan to have children in the future, freezing sperm is an option for future fertilisation. Hormone supplements and other medications may be used to treat fertility problems brought on by hormone imbalances.
While men may not have the same “biological clock” as women, they do have to consider the possibility of encountering fertility issues caused by advancing age. This is especially important for younger men who have decided to have kids later in life. They must take effective steps to preserve their fertility so that they may have the chance of having their own biological child in the future.
Male fertility starts to decline when men reach their mid-thirties.
Yes, sex drive and hormone levels tend to decline as men grow older.
To a great extent, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help younger men preserve their fertility. Older men may be required to take medications like hormone supplements to improve fertility.
Assisted reproductive techniques like IVF or ICSI have proven beneficial for older men who want to have their own biological child.
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