Why Dad’s Age Might Be the Surprising Factor Sabotaging Your IVF Success

Posted on 22 July 2025 by Marcus Williams — 4 min

Here’s a curveball for you: while everyone’s been obsessing over mom’s age when it comes to IVF, new research is quietly shouting that dad’s age matters just as much.

If you thought only the mother’s biological clock was ticking, think again. A recent eye-opening article from Newsweek titled Higher Risk of Miscarriage in IVF When Father Is Elder Millennial reveals that dads over 45 have a significantly higher chance of experiencing miscarriage after IVF treatments. Yes, you read that right — it’s not just about the ladies!

The Mystery of the Male Factor in Fertility

Traditionally, reproductive medicine has been laser-focused on maternal age. After all, women’s fertility does dip dramatically after 35. But this new data flips the script and highlights an often-overlooked villain: paternal age. Sperm quality, motility, and genetic integrity can decline as men get older — and that can spell trouble when it comes to IVF success.

So, why has this been such a well-kept secret? Partly because men’s fertility hasn’t gotten as much spotlight as women’s. Also, the fertility journey is often framed around the woman’s body, leaving male factors in the shadows. But with this new research, it's clear that ignoring dad’s biological clock is no longer an option.

What Does This Mean for Couples Trying to Conceive?

If you and your partner are navigating the tricky waters of IVF, this emerging evidence means you might want to reconsider your approach — or at least have an open conversation with your fertility specialist about dad’s age.

Older paternal age is associated with lower sperm motility and genetic abnormalities.
IVF success rates may dip and miscarriage risks rise for men over 45.
It’s essential to assess and optimize male fertility alongside female fertility.

Enter At-Home Solutions: Can They Help?

Now, you might be wondering if there’s anything you can do without constantly running to the clinic. That’s where the clever at-home insemination kits from companies like MakeAMom come into play.

These kits are designed with different sperm challenges in mind — whether it’s low motility, low volume, or special conditions — making it easier for couples to try conception in the comfort of their own home. What’s more, they’re reusable and cost-effective, so you’re not burning a hole in your wallet while trying to restore control over your fertility journey.

Can At-Home Insemination Kits Make a Difference?

Absolutely! Here’s why:

They reduce the stress and expense of repeated clinic visits.
You get to time insemination perfectly according to ovulation.
Tailored kits like MakeAMom’s Impregnator specifically address low sperm motility — a common issue in older men.
More intimate, private, and empowering for couples.

Remember, while these kits can be a great tool, they’re not a cure-all. Understanding the impact of paternal age should encourage couples to get sperm health checked regularly, especially if dad is a millennial in his 40s or older.

The Takeaway: Keep Your Eyes on Both Clocks

Here’s the bottom line — fertility is a team sport. It’s time the focus expanded beyond just the woman’s biological clock and embraced the dad’s role in conception success. Paternal age matters, sperm health matters, and your approach to conception should reflect that.

So, if you’re planning your IVF journey or considering at-home insemination, don’t neglect the father’s fertility health. Tools like MakeAMom's home insemination kits can offer a convenient way to support sperm-related challenges and potentially increase your chances of conception.

Got questions or stories about navigating fertility as an older dad or couple? Let’s talk about it in the comments below. Because when it comes to beating the odds, knowledge is your best friend!

Sources: - Higher Risk of Miscarriage in IVF When Father Is Elder Millennial - Newsweek