Male fertility isn’t ageless—here’s why age matters!
For decades, the conversation around age and fertility has focused almost entirely on women. While it’s true that female fertility declines significantly with age, the idea that men can father children indefinitely without issue is a common myth—and a risky one. The reality is that male fertility also declines with age, and it can impact both the ability to conceive and the health of future offspring.
Here’s what men need to know about the biological clock on their side of the equation.
Male Fertility Declines with Age—Just More Gradually
Unlike women, who are born with a finite number of eggs, men produce new sperm throughout life. However, this process doesn’t remain efficient forever. Starting around age 40, changes begin to occur in sperm quality and reproductive hormones.
Key age-related changes include:
- Decreased testosterone levels
- Lower semen volume and sperm count
- Reduced sperm motility (movement)
- Increased sperm DNA fragmentation
DNA Fragmentation Increases With Age
One of the most significant concerns with male age is the increase in sperm DNA fragmentation—damage to the genetic material within sperm. High levels of DNA fragmentation have been linked to:
- Lower fertilization rates
- Miscarriage
- Poor embryo quality
- Potential developmental issues in offspring
Age Impacts Pregnancy and Offspring Outcomes
Several large studies have shown that increasing paternal age is associated with:
- Longer time to conception
- Increased risk of miscarriage
- Higher likelihood of conditions like autism and schizophrenia in children
What Men Can Do to Preserve Fertility:
While age is an uncontrollable factor, men can take proactive steps to protect their fertility:
- Test Early and Regularly
Routine semen analysis—especially using WHO 6th Edition standards—can provide early insights into sperm quality. Tools like the YO Home Sperm Test make it easy to monitor motile sperm concentration at home.
- Consider DNA Fragmentation Testing
Especially for men over 35, adding a DFI test to your fertility evaluation can uncover hidden sperm health issues.
- Make Lifestyle Changes
Maintain a healthy BMI, reduce alcohol and tobacco use, manage stress, and limit heat exposure (e.g., saunas, hot tubs) to support sperm health.
- Talk to a Fertility Specialist
If you’re 40+ and planning for parenthood, consult a reproductive urologist or fertility clinic to assess your options and create a plan.
It’s Never Too Early to Think Ahead
Male fertility may decline more gradually than female fertility—but it does decline. And the risks to both conception and offspring health increase with age. Whether you’re ready to start a family or considering freezing sperm for future use, taking action earlier gives you more options—and better outcomes.
