Introduction: What to do with older prospective fathers: the risks of advanced paternal age

Abstract

Increasing numbers of men are attempting conception at older ages. Adverse changes in male fertility and sexual function occur with age. In addition, there are potential consequences for children born to older fathers-some medical and some psychological. This month's Views and Reviews section discusses the biologic changes in reproductive function, medical conditions that increase with age that affect reproductive function, the risks to children of older fathers, genetic mechanisms responsible for these risks, and issues clinicians should know to be able to counsel these couples.