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How does aging affect sperm production and motility?
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infertility
Major structures and hormones involved in the initiation of pregnancy. Also seen, at right, is the development of an egg cell (ovum) from follicle to embryo.
Advancing age is associated with a gradual decline in testicular function, which directly impacts both the quantity and quality of sperm produced. As men age, they typically experience a decrease in circulating testosterone levels, which is linked to a reduction in the overall functioning of the testicles.12
Specifically, this physiological aging process leads to the following changes:
- Sperm Production: There is a gradual decrease in spermatogenesis, the process by which the testis produces mature sperm cells. While this decline is slow and men often remain fertile for many years, older men generally produce fewer sperm compared to younger men.132
- Sperm Motility: Advancing age is associated with a decrease in the motility of sperm, meaning the sperm are less capable of movement.2
These changes are part of a natural, gradual decline in reproductive function, which stands in contrast to the more abrupt cessation of ovarian function seen in women at menopause.3