Men, unlike women, do not stop producing sperm at a specific age. While sperm production may decline with age, and the quality may decrease, it continues throughout a man's life. This is in contrast to women, who are born with all the eggs they will ever have.
Factors Affecting Sperm Production
While men never truly stop producing sperm, several factors influence sperm count, motility (movement), and overall quality:
- Age: Although sperm production doesn't cease, its quality and quantity gradually decline with age. This decline is typically gradual and may not significantly impact fertility until later in life.
- Hormonal Changes: Decreasing testosterone levels with age can impact sperm production.
- Lifestyle Factors: Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, obesity, and stress negatively impact sperm health.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions and treatments can also affect sperm production.
Several sources confirm that there is no definitive age at which sperm production stops completely. MedlinePlus states that "Age does not predict male fertility." Give Legacy similarly notes that "Men typically never stop producing sperm, but..." The implication is that while the quantity and quality change, the production continues. Even articles addressing ejaculation issues in older men (Hims) focus on reduced volume and other quality issues, not a complete cessation of sperm production.
It's crucial to understand that while men can father children at older ages, the likelihood of conception might decrease due to age-related decline in sperm quality and quantity.
