Fertility is Ageist
The Impact of Age on Male Fertility: What New Parents Need to Know
While age is not a barrier to achieving many things, it can reduce a man's chances of fathering a healthy child. While a woman's age is widely recognized as the most crucial factor in conception, the father’s age also plays a significant role in fertility outcomes.
The Facts About Men, Age, and Fertility
As men age, the quality of their sperm and overall fertility can decline. It becomes more difficult for older men to conceive, and there is a higher risk of infertility. The age of the father also influences the chances of miscarriage and potential health complications in the child.
Key Statistics on Male Age and Fertility
- For men under 25, the average time to pregnancy is just over 4.5 months. However, for men over 40, this time increases to nearly two years, even if the woman is under 25.
- Men over 45 experience a five-fold increase in the time it takes to conceive compared to younger men.
- In IVF cases, the chance of success decreases significantly for men aged 41 or older. The risk of not having a baby in these cases is more than five times higher.
- As men age, the volume of semen and sperm motility (the ability of sperm to swim towards the egg) decrease. These factors decline steadily from the age of 20 through to 80.
- Women whose partners are over 45 are twice as likely to experience a miscarriage compared to those whose partners are under 25.
- Children fathered by men aged 40 or older are more than five times as likely to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder compared to children whose fathers are under 30.
How Age Affects Male Fertility and Parenthood
The age of a man can significantly affect his fertility, as well as the health of his offspring. Older fathers may face greater challenges in conception, longer wait times, and an increased risk of miscarriage or developmental issues in children. This is why couples who want to start a family should consider these factors and have the conversation about timing and fertility sooner rather than later.
Understanding the impact of age on fertility can help men and their partners make informed decisions when planning for a family.
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