A study conducted at six IVF clinics in Spain and Italy has revealed that men over the age of 45 could significantly contribute to fertility problems, even when younger women’s eggs are used.
The research analyzed 1,712 IVF cycles between 2019 and 2023, where the average age of the women involved was 26, while the male partners were either under or over 45 years old.
While fertilization and embryo development rates were similar for both groups, the risk of miscarriage was higher among men over 45 (23.8%) compared to those under 45 (16.3%).
Additionally, the live birth rate was lower in older men (35.1%) compared to younger ones (41%).
Dr. Maria Cristina Guglielmo, an expert in reproductive cell biology, emphasized that it is time doctors started considering male age as a key fertility factor, just like they do for women.
She added that as men age, their sperm is more likely to carry damaged DNA, which may harm embryo quality or lead to pregnancy loss.
The study urges reproductive health clinics to provide comprehensive fertility information for both partners, as a man’s age can impact fertility just as much as a woman’s.
