Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University
Qixi Festival is here, a sweet moment, a good time to have a baby. This year, let’s talk about the other half, the young men are full of energy, and mature men also deserve care.
We often discuss “advanced maternal age,” but “advanced paternal age” is also very common. The golden reproductive age for men is also between 25-35 years old. Men in this age group are at their peak physical condition, full of energy, and have the best sperm quality, they can go anywhere.
Don’t doubt it, crossing 35 is indeed a turning point for fertility in men. (The editor is only talking about fertility, the desire to live is strong 😌.)
Youthful couples, consider having children early
We respect the reproductive wishes of every couple, but if you want to have children, it’s really best to do it early. Studies have shown that as men age, sperm quality decreases, and quantity and vitality also decline to varying degrees, affecting male fertility. Just like farming, although you can still sow seeds, if the “fertility” weakens, the yield diminishes over the years.
Specifically, male fertility slowly declines after the age of 35, and by the age of 45, testicular function significantly diminishes, affecting the stability of reproductive cell genetic material. The occurrence of spontaneous DNA mutations and increased sperm deformities increase significantly. Poor integrity of sperm DNA not only leads to fertilization failure for the next generation but can also result in embryo gene defects and developmental abnormalities even if embryos are formed.
“Late fatherhood” carries significant risks
1. Health issues become prominent
Offspring born to men aged 45 and above are more likely to have low birth weight, premature birth, increased risk of stillbirth in the late stages of pregnancy, and can even affect the child’s future health and normal growth and development.
2. Increased likelihood of intellectual and mental abnormalities
Research has shown that offspring born to men over 45 have a significantly higher probability of intellectual disabilities and various mental abnormalities compared to children born at the optimal reproductive age.
3. Soaring risk of birth defects
Advanced paternal age is closely linked to fetal birth defects, with older fathers more likely to cause various types of birth defects in offspring and increase the risk of some hereditary diseases.
Mature men’s fertility can be maintained with proper care
However, the editor also understands that, for various reasons, the inevitability of more and more “advanced paternal age” cases. We might not have the ideal age, but we can work on being in good shape and make the best of it.
1. Correct various unhealthy habits, besides avoiding smoking and alcohol, prolonged sitting, and staying up late should not be overlooked.
2. Maintain a joyful mood, ensure adequate sleep and moderate exercise, and consume fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins.
3. Avoid damage to the testicles from electronic radiation and exposure to high-temperature environments.
4. It’s best to complete pre-pregnancy examinations before preparing for pregnancy, promptly treat reproductive-related diseases such as varicocele, and orchitis.
5. If faced with challenges, seek medical help promptly, and avoid relying on unscientific folk remedies.
