Infertility is commonly thought of as a female issue, but male infertility is actually a contributing factor in about 50% of fertility cases. Male infertility is often genetic, passed down from father to son.

However, understanding when the risk of male infertility is highest and how it is inherited is complex. Here we take a deep dive into the factors that determine when male infertility is passed from father to son.

What is Male Infertility?

Infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular unprotected sex. Male infertility may be due to a variety of factors, including low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology.

While these may be caused by environmental factors or health issues, a significant portion of male infertility is caused by genetic factors.

How is Male Infertility Inherited?

Male infertility can be inherited in various ways, including autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, and X-linked patterns.

In autosomal dominant inheritance, a single copy of a gene mutation from either parent is enough to cause infertility in the offspring. In autosomal recessive inheritance, both parents must carry a copy of the gene mutation for the offspring to inherit infertility. The X-linked pattern of inheritance involves genes located on the X chromosome, of which men only have one.

Mutations in X-linked genes can cause infertility in men.

When is Male Infertility Passed from Father to Son?

Male infertility can be passed from father to son at any point in a man’s life. Because of the many potential causes of male infertility, there is no single age or indicator that marks when a man’s infertility will be passed to his offspring.

However, studies have shown that sperm quality and quantity can decrease with age, making it more likely that genetic mutations related to male infertility will be passed down in older fathers.

Advanced Paternal Age

Advanced paternal age is a known risk factor for male infertility. Studies have shown that men over 40 years old have a 5-fold increase in the risk of infertility compared to men under 30.

This increased risk is believed to be related to the accumulation of genetic mutations in the sperm of older men. When older sperm fertilizes an egg, it can pass on these mutations, contributing to male infertility in future generations.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors can also contribute to male infertility and may interact with genetic factors. Exposure to toxins, heat, and radiation can damage sperm DNA, leading to infertility.

The effects of environmental factors can also accumulate over time and may increase the likelihood that genetic mutations related to male infertility will be passed down. Lifestyle factors, such as drug use, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use, can also contribute to infertility.

Diagnosing Male Infertility

Diagnosing male infertility involves a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history and conducting a physical exam. A semen analysis is typically the first test conducted, which looks at sperm count, motility, and morphology.

Additional tests may include hormone testing, genetic testing, and imaging studies to assess the health of the reproductive system.

Treatment for Male Infertility

Treatment for male infertility depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, lifestyle changes may be enough to improve sperm quality, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and improving diet and exercise habits.

In other cases, medication may be prescribed to address hormonal imbalances, surgery may be recommended to address structural abnormalities, or assisted reproductive technologies may be used to help achieve pregnancy.

Preventing Male Infertility

Preventing male infertility involves reducing exposure to environmental toxins, addressing health issues that can contribute to infertility, and following a healthy lifestyle.

Men who are concerned about their fertility should seek medical care and evaluation to identify any underlying issues that may be affecting their ability to conceive.

Conclusion

Male infertility is a complex issue that can be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors.

While male infertility can be passed from father to son at any age, advanced paternal age and exposure to environmental toxins are known risk factors for infertility. Understanding the causes and risk factors for male infertility can help men make informed decisions about their reproductive health and seek medical care when necessary to address any underlying issues.