Advanced Paternal Age Linked to Increased Miscarriage Risk and Lower Live Birth Rates in Donor Egg IVF Cycles
New research presented at the 41st Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) suggests a correlation between advanced paternal age and poorer outcomes in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles utilizing donor eggs. The findings indicate that fathers aged 40 and above may face a higher likelihood of miscarriage and a reduced chance of live birth when their partners undergo IVF with donated eggs.
This study, which analyzed data from a significant number of IVF cycles involving donor eggs, aimed to explore the influence of paternal age on reproductive success, independent of the mother’s age or egg quality. The results suggest that while donor eggs can mitigate some age-related challenges for the female partner, the age of the male partner may still play a crucial role in the overall success of an IVF pregnancy.
Specifically, the research indicated that paternal age was associated with an elevated risk of miscarriage. This suggests that sperm quality and function, which can decline with age, might impact the early stages of pregnancy, even when the embryo is created using a younger donor egg. Furthermore, the study observed a trend towards lower live birth rates in couples where the father was aged 40 or older, implying that advanced paternal age could affect the developmental potential of the embryo throughout the pregnancy.
The implications of these findings are important for fertility counseling and treatment planning. While the study focused on donor egg cycles, it highlights the broader impact of male fertility on reproductive outcomes. Prospective parents, particularly those considering assisted reproductive technologies, may benefit from a comprehensive discussion about paternal age and its potential influence on their fertility journey.
While this research provides valuable insights, it is essential to acknowledge that correlation does not equal causation. Further investigation is warranted to fully understand the underlying biological mechanisms that may link advanced paternal age to these observed outcomes. Factors such as DNA fragmentation in sperm, epigenetic changes, and the overall health of the father could all contribute to these associations.
For individuals and couples navigating fertility treatments, understanding these potential influences can empower them to make informed decisions and work closely with their fertility specialists to optimize their chances of a successful pregnancy.
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www.prnewswire.com published ‘ESHRE 41st Annual Meeting: Älteres Alter des Vaters mit höherem Fehlgeburtsrisiko und niedrigeren Lebendgeburtenraten bei IVF-Zyklen mit Spendereiern verbunden’ at 2025-06-29 22:01. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.