Studies have suggested late fatherhood has links to increased risk of miscarriages. According to a 2006 study published in ScienceDaily, “increasing paternal age is significantly associated with increased rates of spontaneous abortion, a pregnancy loss occurring before 20 weeks of gestation.”

Dr Kranthi Shilpa, consultant gynecologist, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills Hyderabad, said several factors surrounding aging contribute to this increased risk.

Genetic mutations: As men age, there is an increased likelihood of genetic mutations in their sperm. These mutations can lead to chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo, increasing the risk of miscarriage.

DNA fragmentation: Aging can lead to increased DNA fragmentation in sperm, which can compromise the genetic integrity of the embryo and, in turn, increase the risk of miscarriage.

Decreased sperm quality: Aging is associated with a decline in sperm quality, including decreased motility and morphology, which can impact embryo development and increase the risk of miscarriage.

“Current research has proven that advanced paternal age beyond 40 years is significantly associated with increased risk of spontaneous miscarriages, even after adjusting for maternal age,” said Dr Swati Rai, senior consultant and laparoscopic surgeon, obstetrician and gynaecologist, Aaradhya Neuro and Gynae Clinic.