With changing sociocultural and economic landscapes, more men over the age of 35 are pursuing parenthood. While maternal age is often in the spotlight, the role of advanced paternal age on fertility and reproductive outcomes deserves equal attention.
How Advanced Paternal Age Affects Fertility
Men produce sperm throughout their lives, even into their 70s and 80s, but reproductive function gradually declines with age. Here’s how this can impact fertility:
- Reduced Fertility Potential: Studies show men over 40 may take longer to achieve pregnancy due to reduced levels of hormones essential for healthy sperm production.
- Changes in Sperm Quality: Aging may lower semen volume, though the effects on sperm motility, concentration, and morphology vary across individuals. DNA fragmentation in sperm is another age-related concern, potentially impacting conception success.
- Genetic Risks: Older sperm is more prone to mutations, including chromosomal abnormalities and de novo mutations, which may increase the risk of developmental conditions in offspring.
Potential Risks for Offspring
Advanced paternal age has been associated with several potential risks for children, including:
- Higher Miscarriage Rates: Couples with older fathers may experience increased pregnancy loss.
- Developmental Disorders: Studies link advanced paternal age to a higher likelihood of conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia.
- Pregnancy and Delivery Complications: Older paternal age may contribute to conditions like preeclampsia, low birth weight, or preterm delivery.
- Long-Term Health Concerns: Children of older fathers may have an increased risk of psychiatric disorders, certain cancers, and metabolic conditions like diabetes.
Advanced Paternal Age and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
While ART offers a solution for age-related fertility challenges, advanced paternal age may still pose unique considerations:
- Embryo Development: Research shows fewer embryos from older fathers progress to the blastocyst stage due to delayed activation of the paternal genome during early development.
- Success Rates: Despite these findings, implantation and pregnancy rates with ART remain largely unaffected by paternal age, offering hope to older fathers.
Take the First Step Today
If you’re considering parenthood later in life, Sakalli IVF is here to help you navigate the journey with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your fertility options.