Male menopause – Our Los Angeles fertility doctor discusses male fertility and age

At Innovative Fertility Center, we offer advanced infertility diagnoses and treatments so that patients can achieve their dreams of becoming parents. In recent years, the media has highlighted the link between infertility and a woman’s age, but little attention has been given to male fertility and age. Mark Rispler MD, our Los Angeles fertility doctor, believes our patients and their partners should understand how aging affects male fertility.

Outlining the facts about male fertility and age

Current research has confirmed that fertility for women declines with age. A woman is born with all the eggs she will ever have, and the quantity and quality of these eggs declines with age. Because a man continues to produce sperm throughout his adult life, many people assume no problems exist related to male fertility and age. However, sperm quality decreases at age 40, which can cause difficulty conceiving and an increased risk of miscarriage.

How to maximize male fertility

If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, Dr. Rispler can evaluate your specific case to identify any barriers to conception. Our Los Angeles fertility doctor wants patients to think about the following information regarding male fertility and age.

• Seek help. If you have been trying to conceive for more than 12 months – or six months if the female partner is over age 35 – make an appointment with a fertility specialist. If the male partner is 40 or older, you may want to schedule a consultation sooner rather than later.
• Male factor infertility exists. Either partner can contribute to fertility problems, so both you and your partner should undergo a complete fertility assessment, which will involve a semen analysis for the male partner.
• Lifestyle choices matter. Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, avoiding tobacco and marijuana, and exercising regularly can help men stay in good health as they age. This also has a positive effect on their odds of conceiving a child.

If you’re struggling to have a child, you and your partner may feel frustrated. Our Los Angeles fertility doctor can diagnose any problems and address any issues related to male fertility and age. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rispler.