A recent study found that women with partners aged 35 or older had nearly three times as many miscarriages compared with women conceiving with men younger than 25 years of age. This is not surprising given other studies that have shown a decrease in the genetic integrity of sperm with age. These studies emphasize the importance of both partners working to optimize their health when couples are trying to conceive.
All too often couples focus on the female partner where the problem is really with the male. Unfortunately, you cannot rely on a semen analysis. Studies have shown that a man can have a normal semen analysis and still have bad DNA integrity. Even more advanced tests such as those measuring DNA fragmentation do not pick up many genetic problems.
These genetic problems lead to decreased pregnancy rates as well as increased incidences of passing along unfavorable genetic mutations.
The good news is that acupuncture, herbs and nutrition can improve sperm quality and help protect sperm DNA. The proper combinations of herbs and nutrition have been shown to reverse DNA damage. However, what is "proper" depends on individual needs. Although this information has not been advertised by supplement companies, studies have shown that some popular nutrients that can be beneficial to sperm when you need them, can become toxic to sperm when you don't need them.
Therefore, there is no substitute for a customized evaluation of your particular needs. Through a thorough evaluation and customized treatment regimen you can maximize your chances of having a healthy and happy baby.
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Aug;108(2):369-377.
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2006 Jun 20;103(25):9601-6. Epub 2006 Jun 9
