Does a mans age have anything to do with increased risk of mental retardation and birth defects?

Question

I know women have increased risks as they get older, but do men in their 40's and beyond have an increased risk as well (assuming the mother has no risk at all)

I definitely need documentation for this, it is for a friend.

Answer 1

It is a fairly well know fact that men's sperm health decreases with age just as women's egg health declines with age. Here are some links for info: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/06/060606091933.htm
http://www.news-medical.net/?id=18273
You could also check with a specialist doctor in reproduction for more info.
However, the chances of a healthy baby still outweigh the chances of serious problems... (my husband was 46 and 49 when our kids were conceived, and both kids are healthy).

Answer 2

No, the man's sperm really does not have anything to do with it, however, a woman in her 40's has a big role. By the time she is 40, the "best" of her eggs are already gone. That does not mean that she cannot produce a healthy baby however. If mental retardation runs in your family, that would be a contributor on your side however. There are tests that can be done if she gets pregnant at about 21 weeks where they can determine if the mental retardation gene is apparent. At that point, you have the option of continuing with the pregnancy or not. If you are thinking of conceiving, tell the potential mother to begin taking folic acid now, it is very important in helping prevent birth defects, but not a guarantee.

Answer 3

Women 35+ are higher at risk, and men 50+ are. Otherwise under that they don't worry about age being a factor in defects... and even older than that you can have a perfectly healthy baby.

Answer 4

Downs Syndrome- there has been research done and even if the man is in his 40's there is a risk

Answer 5

I agree, undesirable infants. No it is not a coaching lesson. Very unhappy issues happen in this international, God did not reason it. it is all a factor of our earthly experience. Many question might desire to be asked with the aid of anybody approximately "why does God enable (insert regardless of sadnesses you comprehend of) happen. i don't think of God does it, we can't comprehend those issues in this earthly existence. For me, the wonderful i will do for my self is to thank God for all the advantages, this astonishing earth, those we like, a pleasing day, i think in God, those questions we won't be able to answer would not replace that for me.

Answer 6

Yes, there are now a few studies showing that man's age can affect mental health of the baby. (I feel sorry for baby Trump!)

http://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en-us&q=father's+age+affecting+fetus&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8

Answer 7

i agree