Yes, male fertility does depend on age. As men get older, their fertility declines due to several factors.
Sperm production decreases with age. The number of germline cysts in the final stage of spermatogenesis declines substantially as males age, leading to reduced sperm production. This decline occurs chronologically with age, regardless of mating activity.
Sperm quality diminishes with age. Older men tend to have lower sperm motility, higher rates of abnormal sperm morphology, and more DNA fragmentation in their sperm.
Testosterone levels drop with increasing age, which can impact sperm production and sexual function.
The risk of genetic abnormalities in sperm increases as men get older, potentially affecting embryo development and pregnancy outcomes.
While age-related fertility decline is more pronounced in women, male fertility also decreases steadily after around age 40-45, making it more difficult to conceive naturally with an older male partner.
Therefore, a man's age is an important factor influencing fertility and the ability to achieve a successful pregnancy