Male Fertility and Age: Does the Biological Clock Tick for Men Too?

Male Fertility and Age: Does the Biological Clock Tick for Men Too?

When people think about the “biological clock,” the focus is usually on women. It’s well known that female fertility declines with age, especially after 35. But what about men—does age affect their fertility too? The answer is yes. While men remain capable of fathering children much longer than women can conceive, male fertility also declines over time and can impact both the chances of conception and the health of a pregnancy.

How Age Affects Male Fertility

Men continue to produce sperm throughout their lives, but age influences sperm quality in several ways:

• Sperm count: The number of sperm can decrease with age.
• Motility: Older men are more likely to have sperm with reduced motility (the ability to swim and reach the egg).
• DNA fragmentation: Aging increases the likelihood of sperm DNA damage, which can affect embryo development and pregnancy success rates.

Impact on Conception and Pregnancy

Although many men in their 40s, 50s, and beyond can father children, the risks associated with advanced paternal age are real:

• Longer time to conception: It may take longer for a couple to conceive if the male partner is older.
• Higher miscarriage rates: Pregnancies with older fathers have a slightly increased risk of miscarriage.
• Genetic risks: Advanced paternal age has been linked to a higher risk of certain genetic conditions and developmental disorders in children.

What Men Can Do to Support Fertility Health

The good news is that men can take steps to optimize fertility at any age:

• Lifestyle choices: Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants (fruits, vegetables, nuts) can improve sperm health.
• Limit exposure to toxins: Reduce contact with environmental toxins, heat exposure (like hot tubs), and radiation from electronics placed near the groin area.
• Medical evaluation: Fertility testing, including semen analysis, can give men a clear picture of their reproductive health.

Supporting Your Fertility Journey Together

While women’s fertility is often emphasized, men’s age and health are equally important in family building. If you and your partner are struggling to conceive—or if you have concerns about age and fertility—seeking guidance from a reproductive specialist can make all the difference.

At University Reproductive Associates (URA), we provide comprehensive evaluations for both men and women, helping couples and individuals understand their fertility health and explore personalized treatment options. If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a consultation with us today.