Male infertility is influenced by both age and underlying health conditions. The impact of age in infertility is significant, as fertility and ageing are closely linked. As men grow older, sperm quality and quantity tend to decline, making conception more difficult. Additionally, various health conditions – including hormonal imbalances, genetic disorders and infections – can further impact fertility. Understanding these factors is crucial for men seeking to maintain reproductive health.
How Age Affects Male Fertility
Sperm Quality Decline
Age plays a significant role in sperm health. While men continue producing sperm throughout their lives, the quality and efficiency of sperm decline with age. This can lead to a reduction in fertility potential.
Changes in Semen Parameters
Several semen parameters deteriorate with age:
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- Semen Volume: The amount of semen produced typically decreases over time.
- Total Sperm Count: The number of sperm present in ejaculate gradually declines.
- Sperm Motility: The ability of sperm to move effectively toward the egg is reduced.
- Sperm DNA Integrity: The quality of the sperm DNA decreases significantly with age. A study done by us on over 7000 Indian males found that, after 36 years of age, the integrity of the sperm DNA does decrease significantly.
These changes make it harder for sperm to successfully fertilise an egg, prolonging the time it takes to conceive.
Longer Time to Conception
Older men may experience increased difficulty in achieving pregnancy compared with younger men. Studies show that men over 40 take longer to conceive, even when their partners are young and fertile.
Increased Risk of Genetic Issues
Advanced paternal age has been linked to a slightly higher risk of genetic mutations in sperm. This can contribute to conditions such as autism, schizophrenia and certain congenital disorders in children.
Declining Testosterone Levels
Testosterone, the primary male hormone, naturally declines with age. This can impact:
- Libido and sexual function
- Energy levels
- Muscle mass and bone density
A significant drop in testosterone can further contribute to fertility issues, as testosterone plays a key role in sperm production.
Other Age-Related Factors
Several physical changes related to ageing can also affect fertility:
- Reduced blood flow to the pelvic area, which can impair sexual and reproductive function.
- Changes in testicle size and consistency, with testicles shrinking or softening over time.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can impact sexual health and ejaculation.
Health Conditions That Affect Male Fertility
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones regulate sperm production, and any imbalance can negatively impact fertility. Conditions like hypogonadism, where the body produces insufficient testosterone, can significantly reduce sperm production. Male fertility medications may help in some cases by restoring hormonal balance.
Genetic Disorders
Some men are born with genetic conditions that impair fertility. Klinefelter syndrome, for example, is a disorder where men have an extra X chromosome, leading to low testosterone levels and poor sperm production.
Infections and Their Impact
Certain infections can damage sperm production and reproductive organs. These include:
- Viral orchitis: Inflammation of the testicles, often caused by mumps.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Untreated STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can lead to scarring and blockages in reproductive ducts.
Chronic Health Problems
Long-term health conditions can also contribute to male infertility:
- Diabetes: May contribute to erectile dysfunction and negatively affect sperm quality.
- Obesity: Associated with lower testosterone levels and increased estrogen, disrupting sperm production.
- Certain cancers: Testicular and prostate cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, can harm sperm production.
Varicocele – A Reversible Cause of Infertility
Varicocele is a common condition where the veins in the scrotum enlarge, increasing testicular temperature and damaging sperm quality. Fortunately, surgical treatments can improve sperm production and restore fertility in many cases.
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Unhealthy lifestyle choices can further reduce male fertility:
- Smoking: Lowers sperm count and affects sperm motility.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Impairs hormone production and sperm health.
- Drug use: Recreational drugs like marijuana and anabolic steroids can decrease sperm production.
Trauma and Anatomical Abnormalities
Physical injuries or congenital conditions can also affect fertility:
- Testicular injury: Trauma to the testicles can lead to reduced sperm production.
- Undescended testes: If testicles fail to descend properly at birth, sperm production may be impaired later in life.
The Role of DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) Testing
A crucial factor in assessing male infertility is sperm DNA integrity. The DFI test measures sperm DNA fragmentation, providing insight into the likelihood of successful conception. A high DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) is associated with lower fertility rates and increased chances of miscarriage.
Notably, Andrology Center in Coimbatore is the only authorised lab in India to conduct the Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay (SCSA®) test, the gold-standard method for DFI testing. This cutting-edge diagnostic tool helps identify potential sperm DNA damage, guiding personalised treatment plans for improved fertility outcomes.
Conclusion
Age and health conditions play a critical role in male fertility. While ageing naturally leads to declines in sperm quality and hormone levels, various health issues – from infections to genetic disorders – can further impact reproductive potential. Fortunately, medical advancements, including DFI test analysis and advanced male infertility treatments offer hope for those facing fertility challenges. By seeking expert guidance and making positive lifestyle changes, men can improve their chances of successful conception and fatherhood.
If you need any help with tests for semen analysis, DFI or even blood and hormone tests, our team at Andrology Center is ready to assist you.
