The Effect of Aging Fertility on Male Fertility and Sperm Quality
Elderly childbearing refers to the pregnancy and childbearing of women over 35 years old. With the improvement of social and economic conditions and the improvement of people's right to choose their childbearing time, more and more women choose to conceive and give birth at a later age. However, many studies have shown that elder childbearing not only has a significant impact on female fertility, but also has a certain impact on male fertility and sperm quality.
1. The number and vitality of sperm decrease
With the growth of men's age, the number and vitality of sperm will gradually decline. The study found that the number of sperm of men over 40 years old decreased by 2% to 3% every year, and the sperm vitality also decreased accordingly. This is because there are age-related changes in the male reproductive system, including the reduction of testicular volume and the weakening of spermatic cord elasticity. These changes will affect sperm production and motility to some extent, thus affecting male fertility.
In addition, chromosome abnormalities and DNA damage are more likely to occur in the sperm of older men, which is of great significance for the normal development and health of embryos.
2. Abnormal increase of sperm morphology
With the increase of age, the incidence of abnormal sperm morphology in men will also increase. Research shows that the incidence of abnormal sperm morphology in men over 35 years old is higher than that in young men. Abnormal sperm morphology refers to the abnormal morphology and structure of the head, neck and tail of sperm. When the abnormal rate of sperm morphology exceeds the normal range, the normality of sperm for fertilization and embryo development will also be affected.
The increase of abnormal sperm morphology may be related to the decline of sperm production and repair ability in elderly men. In addition, long-term exposure to harmful factors such as environmental pollution and chemicals will also increase the incidence of abnormal sperm morphology.
3. Increased risk of genetic mutation
The risk of genetic mutation will also increase in the process of division and replication of the germ cells of elderly men. Research shows that the older the father, the higher the risk of his children suffering from certain genetic diseases. Genetic mutation may cause children to suffer from autism, Down's syndrome and some genetic diseases, which may bring potential harm to children's physical and intellectual health.
In addition, the sperm of elderly men may also carry some disease related gene mutations. These mutations may be passed on to the next generation, resulting in some potential genetic risks at birth.
4. Decrease of reproductive hormone level
With the growth of age, the level of male reproductive hormone will gradually decline. Reproductive hormones such as testosterone play an important role in spermatogenesis and the maintenance of male reproductive function. The decrease of testosterone level due to aging may affect male fertility.
In addition, the decrease of reproductive hormone level is also related to the increase of male sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction and decreased sexual desire. These problems may also have a certain impact on male reproductive capacity.
Summary
To sum up, the elderly fertility has a significant impact on male fertility and sperm quality. The decrease in the number and vitality of male sperm, the increase in abnormal sperm morphology, the increased risk of genetic mutation, and the decline in reproductive hormone levels may affect male fertility. Therefore, it is important for elderly couples to understand and recognize these impacts. When making the decision to give birth at an advanced age, couples should take these influences into full consideration and seek the help and advice of doctors when necessary.
