Qixi has arrived, a sweet moment, a good time for creating people. This year, let’s talk about partners. Young men are full of vigor, while mature men also deserve attention.
We often discuss “advanced maternal age,” but “advanced paternal age” is also quite common. The ages of 25-35 are considered a man’s prime fertility years, during which time a man’s body is strongest, energy is highest, and sperm quality is the best.
Don’t doubt it; once a man turns 35, it truly is a watershed moment for fertility. (I’m only referring to fertility, the survival instinct is strong 😌.)
Young couples, aim to conceive early
We respect every couple’s desire to have children, but if you want to conceive, you really should do it sooner rather than later. Research shows that as men age, sperm quality declines, and both quantity and motility may decrease to varying degrees, impacting male fertility. It’s similar to farming; although you can still plant seeds, the soil’s “fertility” weakens, and the yield diminishes year by year.
Specifically, after the age of 35, male fertility gradually declines, and by the age of 45, testicular function significantly diminishes, which also affects the stability of genetic material in reproductive cells. There is a noticeable increase in spontaneous DNA mutations in sperm and abnormal morphology. For the next generation, poor DNA integrity in sperm can lead to fertilization failures, and even if an embryo is formed, it may cause genetic defects or developmental abnormalities.
“Late fatherhood” carries significant risks
1. Health issues become apparent
Offspring of men aged 45 and older are more likely to have low birth weight, and risks of preterm birth and stillbirth in late pregnancy will also increase, potentially affecting the child’s future health and normal growth and development.
2. Increased risk of intellectual and mental abnormalities
Studies have found that offspring of men over 45 have a significantly higher probability of intellectual disabilities and various mental abnormalities compared to children born to fathers at optimal reproductive ages.
3. Spike in birth defect risks
Advanced paternal age is closely linked to fetal birth defects. Older fathers are more likely to have offspring with multiple types of birth defects and an increased risk of certain hereditary diseases.
Mature men can still father children, but they need to take care
However, I understand that due to various reasons, “advanced paternal age” is becoming increasingly common. There is no optimal age, but maintaining good health can still make a difference.
1. Correct various unhealthy lifestyle habits; in addition to avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, prolonged sitting and staying up late should not be overlooked.
2. Maintain a cheerful mood, ensure adequate sleep, and engage in appropriate exercise, along with consuming fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins.
3. Avoid exposure to electronic radiation and high-temperature environments that may harm the testes.
4. Before attempting to conceive, it’s best to complete preconception check-ups and timely treat conditions related to fertility, such as varicocele and inflammation of the reproductive glands.
5. If you find that your sexual performance is lacking, seek medical attention actively rather than relying on folk remedies; professional doctors have many ways to assist you.
Reproduction is certainly not solely a woman’s affair
Men are also crucial
Tonight, we’ll see how you perform
Author’s introduction: Liang Guoqing
Urologist, Associate Chief Physician. Specializes in treating various male infertility issues, sperm abnormalities, and sperm preservation, among other specialties. Currently a member of the Male Urology Branch of the Chinese Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Adolescent Medicine Professional Committee of the Chinese Physician Association, the Youth Group of the Asian Society of Andrology, and committee member of the Male Endocrinology Society of Shanghai.
Urology outpatient clinic:
Monday to Friday all day (Huangpu outpatient clinic, outside first floor bungalow)
