When we talk about fertility, much of the focus is often on women. However, male fertility plays an equally important role in conception and can also decline with age. 

Unlike women, who are born with a finite number of eggs, men produce sperm continuously throughout their lives. This means men can father children later in life, but the quality of sperm changes with age, impacting fertility and reproductive outcomes. 

Let’s explore how male fertility changes over time, factors that influence it, and actionable steps men can take to optimise their reproductive health.

How Male Fertility Changes with Age

1. Sperm Production and Quality

Men continue to produce sperm throughout their lives, but the quality of that sperm changes with age. Research shows:

• Semen Volume: The amount of semen produced declines with age.
• Motility: Sperm’s ability to swim effectively toward the egg decreases.
• Morphology: The shape of sperm can become less ideal, reducing the likelihood of successful fertilisation.
• DNA Integrity: Older sperm are more prone to DNA damage, which can increase the risk of miscarriage, genetic abnormalities, and developmental issues in offspring.

2. Hormonal Changes

Testosterone levels naturally decline as men age. This can lead to:

• Reduced libido (sex drive).
• Lower sperm production.
• Slower recovery from physical and emotional stress.

Summary on Male Fertility and Age

20–29: Peak sperm quality, highest motility and count. DNA fragmentation is minimal. Ideal age for conception.

30–39: Gradual decline in motility begins. Slightly increased DNA fragmentation risk.

40–49: Significant decline in sperm motility. Higher risk of DNA fragmentation and reduced chances of natural conception.

50+: Marked reductions in sperm quality. Increased time to conception and higher risks for offspring health.

Source: Pino et al, JBRA Assisted Reproduction, 2020

Common Concerns About Male Fertility

Can Age Affect Conception Success?

Yes. A study showed that the odds of fatherhood for men under 30 were 32%, compared to just 20% for men over 50—a nearly 40% decline. While men can father children later in life, older sperm are more likely to carry DNA damage, which may lead to complications such as miscarriage or developmental challenges.

While men can father children later in life, advanced paternal age comes with some increased risks:

• Longer Time to Conceive: Couples with older male partners may take longer to conceive, even when the female partner is younger.
• Pregnancy Complications: DNA damage in sperm can contribute to miscarriage or developmental disorders.
• Health Risks to Offspring: Studies have linked older paternal age with a slightly higher risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and certain genetic conditions in children.

How Does Lifestyle Impact Fertility?

Age isn’t the only factor affecting fertility. Health and lifestyle choices also play a significant role:

• Smoking and Alcohol: Both can harm sperm quality, reduce motility, and damage DNA.
• Obesity and Diet: Being overweight or consuming a nutrient-poor diet can disrupt hormonal balance and lower sperm quality.
• Heat Exposure: Prolonged exposure to heat (e.g., from tight clothing, hot tubs, or long periods of cycling) can impair sperm production.
• Stress: Chronic stress may disrupt testosterone levels and sperm health.

Does Abstinence Help or Hurt?

Contrary to the myth that abstinence "saves sperm," research shows that long periods of abstinence can lead to a build-up of older, less motile sperm. Having sex every 2–3 days is ideal for maintaining optimal sperm quality while replenishing sperm reserves. During the fertile window, if sperm is healthy, having intercourse every day gives you the best chance of success.

Common Misconceptions About Male Fertility

• Myth: Fitness equates to fertility.
  • Fact: Physical fitness doesn’t always equate to reproductive health. Hormonal imbalances or genetic issues can still affect fertility, even in fit men.
  • Note that some energy drinks and health supplements may contain ingredients like anabolic steroids or testosterone, which can disrupt hormone levels. This disruption can lower sperm quality or reduce sperm production.
• Myth: Soy products reduce testosterone.
  • Fact: Studies show no significant effect on male hormones from moderate soy consumption.
• Myth: Viagra improves fertility.
  • Fact: Erectile dysfunction drugs aid sexual performance but don’t address issues related to sperm quality or quantity.

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Proactive Steps to Optimise Male Fertility

1. Health and Lifestyle Improvements

• Maintain a healthy weight with a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, selenium, and vitamins (A, C, D, E). These nutrients support sperm production and protect against DNA damage.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to moderate levels.
• Manage stress with activities like exercise, mindfulness, or yoga.
• Stay physically active but avoid overtraining, which can suppress testosterone.

2. Check for Underlying Conditions

Certain health issues, such as diabetes, thyroid imbalances, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can impact sperm health. Regular health check-ups are essential, especially as you age.

3. Avoid Heat and Environmental Toxins

• Choose loose-fitting underwear and avoid prolonged exposure to heat sources like hot tubs.
• Reduce exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals, such as pesticides or heavy metals, which can harm sperm.

Fertility Testing for Men

If you’ve been trying to conceive for over a year (or six months if your partner is over 35), a semen analysis (included in Taylor's Couple's Fertility Screening) can provide insights into your sperm health. This test measures:

• Sperm Count: The number of sperm in a single ejaculation.
• Motility: How well the sperm swim.
• Morphology: The shape of the sperm.

Additionally, hormone testing can evaluate testosterone and other levels to identify imbalances affecting sperm production.

The Role of Fertility Treatments

If natural conception isn’t happening, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) can help:

• IUI: Processed sperm is placed directly into the uterus, bypassing potential barriers like low motility.
• IVF with ICSI: A single healthy sperm is injected directly into the egg, which is particularly helpful for severe sperm abnormalities.

Closing Thoughts

Male fertility may decline with age, but many factors influencing reproductive health can be managed through proactive steps. If you’re planning to start or expand your family, taking care of your health, addressing lifestyle factors, and seeking medical advice early can make a significant difference.

Fertility is a shared journey, and understanding how male age and health contribute to the process is key to making informed decisions. Whether through natural conception or assisted treatments, there are options to help you achieve your family-building goals.