The effects of aging on semen parameters and sperm DNA fragmentation

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to look into possible correlations between male age and different sperm parameters derived from semen analysis and sperm deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation. METHODS: This retrospective descriptive study included 2681 male patients who underwent semen analysis at Clínica Las Condes (CLC), Santiago, Chile, between January 2014 and May 2017; correlations between age and sperm parameters were analyzed. RESULTS: Males above the age of 50 were significantly more likely to present anomalies in semen volume, sperm concentration, and sperm DNA fragmentation; males aged 41+ years were more likely to have lower sperm concentration levels; males aged 31+ years were more likely to have decreased sperm motility; when concentration was constant, more volume and motility anomalies were seen as age increased; when volume was kept constant, more motility and concentration anomalies were seen as age increased; and when motility was constant, normal semen volumes decreased as age increased. CONCLUSION: Our study showed that male age significantly affects sperm parameters that might have an impact on male fertility.