Do Men Have a Biological Clock?

By Dr. David Samadi

When we think of the “biological clock,” it’s usually in the context of women and their ability to conceive before menopause. But what about men? Do they have a biological clock, too? While men can father children well into their later years, age does affect male fertility—and it’s an integral part of the conversation about family planning and reproductive health.

Can Men Father Children at Any Age?

Men can indeed conceive children far beyond what’s typical for women. Some men in their 80s and 90s have become fathers, including celebrities like Mick Jagger, Billy Joel, Clint Eastwood, Michael Douglas, and Hugh Grant. These stories may give the impression that male fertility has no expiration date. But just because men can still father children as they age doesn’t mean their fertility remains the same. In reality, men experience changes in their reproductive health over time—changes that can affect not only the likelihood of conception but also the health of their children.

Male Fertility: The Biological Clock in Disguise

Unlike women, who are born with a finite supply of eggs, men produce new sperm every day. This ongoing production might make it seem like male fertility is unaffected by age. However, research tells a different story. Male fertility starts dwindling between the ages of 35 and 45. Sperm from older men are slower, less efficient swimmers and often come with a lower count and higher risk of genetic abnormalities. Studies show that sperm motility (how well sperm move) decreases by about 0.8% annually. Comparing men aged 30–35 to those over 55, sperm motility drops by 54%.

The Impact of Age on Pregnancy and Child Health

For men over 45, the effects of aging sperm go beyond difficulty conceiving. Advanced paternal age has been linked to pregnancy complications and potential risks for the child, including:

Pregnancy risks for the mother: gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.
Birth complications: low birth weight, low Apgar scores, and a higher risk of stillbirth.
Child health concerns: increased risk of congenital heart defects, cleft palate, psychiatric disorders, autism, and childhood cancers.

These risks stem from the accumulation of random mutations in sperm as men age, which can be passed on to their children.

How Men Can Protect Their Fertility

While men can’t stop the clock, they can take steps to preserve and improve their fertility as they age. Here are practical tips for maintaining reproductive health:

Adopt a nutrient-rich diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
Stay active: Regular exercise supports overall health, including sperm health.
Quit smoking: Tobacco use is linked to reduced sperm quality.
Limit alcohol: Excessive drinking can impair fertility.
Avoid marijuana and other drugs: These substances can negatively affect sperm production and quality.

For men considering fatherhood later in life, sperm freezing during their 30s is another option. This can provide a “backup plan,” especially for those who’ve undergone a vasectomy or may want children in the future.

The Takeaway

Yes, men have a biological clock. Although it ticks more subtly than women’s, it’s no less critical when planning for a family. Recognizing how age affects male fertility and taking proactive steps can make a difference—not only in a couple’s ability to conceive but also in the health and well-being of their child. If fatherhood is part of your life plan, consider your age and fertility health as essential factors. Being mindful now can lead to healthier outcomes for you and your future family. Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncolo gy and prostate cancer 911.