Aging is an inevitable process that affects every aspect of human physiology including reproduction.

While female fertility has traditionally been the main focus of age-related fertility decline, there is growing evidence that male fertility also declines with age. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which age affects both male and female fertility.

Female fertility and age

It is well established that female fertility declines with age. Women are born with a finite number of eggs, which are gradually depleted over time.

By the time a woman reaches thirty-five, her fertility begins to decline gradually, and the decline becomes steeper after forty. This is due to a decrease in the quality and quantity of eggs as well as a decline in the levels of hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

Male fertility and age

While female fertility has been the primary focus of age-related fertility decline, there is increasing evidence that male fertility also declines with age. The decline in male fertility is mainly due to a decline in the quality and quantity of sperm.

Studies have shown that men over forty have a decreased ability to fertilize an egg and an increased risk of abnormalities in sperm morphology and motility. Additionally, older men are more likely to father children with genetic mutations which can lead to conditions such as autism and schizophrenia.

The impact of age on IVF success rates

IVF (In vitro fertilization) is a popular fertility treatment that involves the retrieval of eggs from a woman’s ovaries, fertilization with sperm in a laboratory, and then the transfer of resulting embryos into the woman’s uterus.

IVF has been a game-changer for couples struggling with fertility issues, but age can still be a significant barrier to success. The success rates of IVF decline as women age, with the highest success rates seen in women under 35 and the lowest in those over 40.

The decline in success rates is due to a decline in egg quality and an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities in older women’s embryos.

Other factors affecting fertility

Age is not the only factor that affects fertility. Other factors that can impact fertility include:.

Body mass index (BMI)- Both underweight and overweight women have a harder time getting pregnant than women with a BMI in the healthy range.
Diseases and infections- Certain diseases such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can damage the reproductive system and impact fertility. Conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also make it harder for women to conceive.
Smoking- Smoking has been linked to reduced fertility in both men and women.
Alcohol and drug use- Heavy alcohol and drug use can also impact fertility.

Conclusion

Age is the most significant factor influencing fertility in both men and women. Female fertility declines significantly after the age of 35, while male fertility also declines after the age of 40.

Age-related fertility decline can make it harder for couples to conceive naturally and can also impact the success rates of fertility treatments such as IVF. Other factors that can affect fertility include BMI, diseases and infections, smoking, and alcohol and drug use.

Couples who are struggling with fertility issues should seek the advice of a fertility specialist who can help them identify and address any potential issues.