For years, fertility discussions have focused almost entirely on women. But health experts are urging men to pay attention too—especially after age 40. While men can technically father children later in life, science shows that sperm quality, sexual function, and reproductive outcomes all decline with age. And those changes aren’t always easy to detect.
Dr. Dan Nayot, a reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist, wants to clear up the myth: “It’s a common misconception that only women face age-related fertility challenges. Nearly half of all infertility cases involve male factors—and aging plays a major role.”
How Age Affects Sperm Health and Fertility
Unlike women, who have a finite number of eggs, men produce sperm continuously. But that doesn’t mean their fertility is bulletproof. In fact, men over 40 are at increased risk for:
- Lower sperm motility (movement)
- Poor morphology (shape)
- DNA damage
- Delayed conception
- Higher risk of miscarriage
Greater chance of genetic and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, including autism
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine refers to this as “advanced paternal age.” And just like female fertility decline, it’s a biological reality.
Silent Symptoms: Fertility Problems Often Go Undetected
A major concern? Men usually don’t know they have fertility issues until they’re actively trying to conceive. “You can still ejaculate without producing sperm,” Dr. Nayot warns, “especially after procedures like a vasectomy.”
At-home sperm testing kits are now available to help men monitor their fertility more privately. These tests can assess key factors like sperm count and movement, offering an early glimpse into potential problems—before it’s too late.
Sexual Function Declines Too
Beyond sperm itself, male sexual health also changes with age. Men may experience reduced libido, difficulty maintaining erections, or changes in ejaculation—all of which can impact fertility and self-esteem.
And testosterone, the hormone critical for male sexual health and sperm production, is dropping fast—especially in younger men. Dr. Nayot cites a steady 20–25% decline over recent decades, likely due to poor diet, lack of exercise, and rising obesity rates.
5 Evidence-Based Ways to Boost Sperm Quality
While you can’t stop the clock, you can take control of your reproductive health. Dr. Nayot offers five science-backed steps men can take today to improve their sperm quality—and their chances of becoming a healthy dad:
Get Better Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours a night. Poor sleep affects hormone levels and sperm production.
Exercise Regularly: Moderate, consistent physical activity helps maintain hormone balance and weight.
Quit Smoking: Tobacco toxins directly harm sperm DNA and reduce overall fertility.
Eat a Fertility-Friendly Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
Take Supplements: Research supports supplements like Coenzyme Q10, zinc, vitamin E, folate, L-carnitine, selenium, and DHA for better sperm function.
Testosterone and the Modern Man
Low testosterone isn’t just about libido—it’s also a marker of long-term health and fertility. Some experts believe this hormonal drop is linked to the same lifestyle factors driving the obesity epidemic: poor nutrition, sedentary habits, and exposure to environmental toxins.
“It’s not just about making babies,” says Nayot. “It’s about overall male health. Sperm quality can reflect how healthy a man is.”
The Sooner You Start, the Better
If you’re planning to become a father, don’t wait until it’s urgent. Start building healthy habits now. Remember, sperm production takes 2–3 months—so any changes you make today won’t show up immediately but could make all the difference tomorrow.
Dr. Nayot’s message is clear: “While aging is inevitable, being proactive about your health can significantly improve fertility and the chances of a healthy pregnancy.”
Read more:
- How Diet Affects Male Fertility and Sperm Quality
- Can Artificial Sweeteners Harm Male Fertility? New Study Raises Concerns
- Men Live Longer With Routine Checkups, Science Strongly Suggests
