When we hear the term “biological clock”, we automatically think of women and how their fertility is tied to a limited number of fertile years. But did you know that men also have a biological clock? Many are unaware of this fact, as the changes are usually slower and less discussed. Nevertheless, there’s definitely a strong connection between male fertility and age.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at how a man’s age can impact his fertility, with special emphasis on sperm count and its gradual changes over time. Understanding this connection is important, especially for men who plan to start a family later in life.
Sperm (also known as spermatozoa or male gametes) are tiny, tadpole-shaped cells produced in a man’s testicles that play a key role in reproduction. Males start producing sperm once they reach puberty, and they can continue doing so throughout their lives.
Sperm are released from the body during ejaculation in a fluid called semen, which is produced by the male reproductive glands. Semen not only carries the sperm but also provides nutrients and a protective environment to help them survive and move through the female reproductive tract.
The basic function of sperm is to fertilise the female gamete or egg released during the ovulation stage of the menstrual cycle. Each sperm carries half of the genetic material (23 chromosomes) needed to create a baby, while the egg carries the other half. When a healthy sperm successfully fuses with an egg, it forms a zygote, which is the first cell of a new organism. This zygote then travels to the uterus and gets implanted there. It begins growing inside the uterus, eventually becoming an embryo, and later, a baby.
1. Head: This is the front part of the sperm, shaped like an almond. It contains the genetic material (DNA) of the male from which it originates.
2. Tail: Also referred to as the flagellum, this is an elongated section at the end of the sperm that helps it swim through the female reproductive tract towards the fallopian tubes, where the egg is waiting to be fertilised.
3. Neck: This is the mid-section of the sperm, and it contains energy-giving structures called mitochondria. These mitochondria produce the energy needed for the sperm to swim towards the egg.
As stated earlier, the sperm’s main function is to fertilise the female’s egg. However, to do so, it must be healthy. Both sperm quality and quantity are aspects that are taken into account while evaluating male infertility, and ageing plays a key role in affecting both of these aspects.
Semen analysis is a basic test used to assess the health of the sperm. The results of this test will show:
● Semen volume
● Sperm count
● Sperm vitality (percentage of live sperm)
● Sperm motility (ability to swim)
● Semen’s pH scale
● Sperm morphology (shape and size)
● Semen liquefaction time
● White blood cells (in case of infections and inflammations)\
Sperm count is one of the key aspects that affect male fertility. Sperm count refers to the number of sperm that are present in the ejaculated semen. A normal healthy sperm count usually falls between 15 million and 200 million sperm in every 1 millilitre of semen. Men can produce sperm throughout their lives. However, sperm count, as well as sperm quality over time, will diminish as men age. After the age of 40, a man’s body typically produces fewer sperm than it did in his 20s or 30s. In fact, most experts have stated that sperm count is at its peak during the 20s and early 30s.
Let’s take a quick look at why age affects sperm count.
As men age, their sperm count tends to gradually decline. This means the number of sperm present in each ejaculation may be lower than in younger years. This could be due to hormonal changes, among other factors.
With age, semen volume may decrease, which naturally affects the number of sperm released.
Older age is linked to increased sperm DNA damage, which can affect sperm survival and reduce overall sperm count.
Chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, which are more common with age, may lower sperm production. Some medications used to treat these issues can also impact sperm count.
Low sperm count is medically known as oligospermia, and though it can affect men of any age, it is mostly seen in older men. Here are some of the typical symptoms associated with this condition:
● Low sperm count can cause fertility issues. The inability to conceive a child, despite trying for several months, is often the first sign of such male reproductive issues.
● Erectile dysfunction and low libido are often seen in men with low sperm count.
● Sometimes, swelling or pain in the testicles may occur.
● Some men may have less body and facial hair.
Semen analysis is often the first and most important test performed to assess male fertility issues like low sperm count. Apart from this, hormone tests, genetic evaluations, and imaging scans, such as transrectal and testicular ultrasounds, may be recommended to obtain a comprehensive analysis of the issue.
Yes, in some cases, low sperm count is treatable. Doctors may recommend any of the following treatments:
● Surgery, if the low sperm count has been caused by any physical abnormality in the reproductive system.
● Antibiotics may be necessary if there are any infections or inflammations that hinder the count.
● Hormone treatments, if an imbalance is contributing to low sperm count.
● Medical counselling, in case there is erectile dysfunction or a low sex drive.
Now that we have seen the connection between aging and male reproductive health, let’s take a quick look at a few tips to improve sperm count:
1. Adopt habits that support a healthier lifestyle, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, etc.
2. Take vitamin supplements that contain antioxidants like vitamin C and E which help boost fertility.
3. Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
4. Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity can hinder fertility.
5. Avoid tight underwear, as heat around the groin area can impact sperm production.
Age does have an effect on sperm count, but it doesn’t mean fatherhood is out of reach. Healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and even timing intercourse in the early mornings when sperm count is slightly higher, can make a difference. In some cases, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF or ICSI can also help. If you’re planning to start a family later in life, don’t lose hope—there are many ways to support your fertility journey with care, knowledge, and the right support.
