Most men live under the assumption that it is never too late to father a child. New research indicates that men are also subject to the biological clock. Men’s fertility rate operates under a different timeline from women’s, experiencing a decline from the mid-forties to early fifties. There are many problems involved, which can lead to lack of testosterone and a lower sperm count. Issues arise from stress and various health problems.
Waiting until later in life to have children can increase the risk of miscarriage and affect the health of a child after conception. The quantity and quality of sperm decreases with age, which leads to a breakdown in DNA. This can directly affect a child, increasing the chance it is born with autism or other health issues.
Decreased Chances of Conceiving
The older a man gets, the more his chances of conceiving a child are affected. Follicle-stimulating hormone levels increase, which results in the testicles’ being unable to function properly. Luteinizing hormone levels can also rise, which can lead to erectile dysfunction. There are other factors that can keep a man from conceiving, such as high blood pressure and being overweight. Other factors may include heart problems, stress and depression.
Lower Testosterone Levels
Testosterone in men is low when they are children, and the level starts increasing during their teenage years. The hormone accounts for body hair and the deepening of the voice. It also creates more developed muscles as well as the beginning of sexual urges. Testosterone levels in males begin dropping as early as thirty years of age.
A low level of DHEA can also lead to a man having a lower sex drive, and it can also affect fertility rates. It can affect your blood pressure and energy levels, leading to a lower chance of conception. If estrogen levels are out of balance, the chance of conceiving is decreased.
Slowing the Biological Clock
Here are a few easy lifestyle changes to help slow down your biological clock in hopes for better changes of conception.
Exercise
Exercising regularly can help men who are experiencing problems with conceiving. Belly fat is a major problem among males with a lower fertility rate. Exercises that help strengthen the stomach area should be performed on a regular basis. If you begin any new program make sure to start out slowly to give your body time to adjust.
Healthy Eating
Eating a diet that is healthy and in smaller portions will also aid in the reduction of the belly and the increase of overall health. Eating several small meals a day will increase energy levels. This will help with the production of quality sperm, which is required for the conception of a healthy child.
Stress Levels
Reducing stress levels in life goes a long way towards keeping anyone healthy. Stress has been shown to be the problem with many different health issues. Lowering one’s levels of stress will increase fertility rates, which will increase the chances of conception.
Proper Sleep
Sleep is very important in maintaining proper body functions. Getting enough sleep will help improve the overall health of the body. Sleep problems affect one’s mood and can also lead to hypertension, strokes, heart attacks and diabetes. Ensuring that you are getting adequate sleep is one of the best ways to slow down the biological clock.
Conclusion
As men age, they can also experience symptoms of andropause, similar to what women go through. This can decrease the chances of having children later in life. Children born to older males also have increased health risks. Slowing down the aging process by staying healthy and reducing stress will help men maintain their vitality for a much longer period.