Men’s fertility drops faster than women’s, new studies reveal

New research is changing what we know about fertility and ageing. Studies now show that men’s sperm quality decreases faster with age than women’s egg quality. While women are born with all their eggs, which remain genetically stable for many years, men produce new sperm throughout life. Each new batch can carry small DNA errors that accumulate over time, affecting fertility.

As men age, sperm become less active and carry more genetic errors. These changes may increase the risk of complications in future pregnancies. Experts say that male fertility does not disappear suddenly but gradually declines due to ongoing ageing-related changes in sperm quality.

On the other hand, women’s eggs age differently. Women are born with a set number of eggs that do not undergo constant cell division like sperm. This built-in protection system keeps the genetic quality of eggs more stable for longer, although the total number of eggs decreases naturally with age.

Dr Dhanyatha G S, Consultant in Infertility and Reproductive Medicine at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, explains that hormones and strong mitochondria in eggs help maintain their quality. Fertility issues in women are often due to a decrease in egg quantity, rather than a drop in genetic quality. In simple terms, women’s eggs may remain healthy for years, even if their numbers slowly reduce over time.

These findings are helping people understand fertility more clearly. Men need to be aware that their reproductive capacity can decline earlier than expected, while women may have a longer window of fertility than previously thought.

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Lifestyle habits and fertility

Fertility in both men and women is affected by lifestyle choices and overall health. Stress, poor sleep, smoking, excessive alcohol, and untreated medical conditions can reduce reproductive health. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can help protect fertility, regardless of age.

Doctors recommend that men consider early fertility assessments if they plan to start a family later in life. Even though sperm production continues, the risk of DNA errors increases with age. Early evaluation and adopting healthy habits can help improve sperm quality and reduce the chance of complications.

Women are also encouraged to monitor their fertility, especially if they plan to have children later in life. Even though egg quality remains stable for years, the number of eggs declines, which can make conception more difficult. Medical guidance and fertility check-ups can help women plan better and take steps to preserve their fertility if needed.

Experts emphasize that both men and women can take steps to protect their reproductive health. A healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking and alcohol, managing stress, regular exercise, and medical check-ups are key. Maintaining reproductive health is not just about age; it also depends on daily habits and overall well-being.

In conclusion, these new studies highlight important differences between men’s and women’s fertility. Men’s sperm quality declines faster due to constant production and DNA changes, while women’s eggs maintain genetic stability for longer. Understanding these differences helps couples make better decisions about family planning and reproductive health.

Fertility is influenced by age, lifestyle, and medical care. Awareness, healthy habits, and timely medical guidance can improve the chances of a successful pregnancy for both men and women. With the right information and care, couples can make informed choices to plan families and protect reproductive health over the long term.