Is Fathering A Child Advisable At The Age Of 51?

Posted on Sat, 27 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 27 Jun 2015 Answered on

Tue, 14 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have not been in a relationship for over 20 years and just entered one I am 51 years old and hope to have a child with my new girlfriend I'm sure I need to go see my doctor about my sperm levels to see if I could still father a child in the meantime should I reduce the number of times I masterbate and focus on us having sex

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Not advised to ejaculate too often even during masturbation;see below..

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

First, congratulations for the new life you've just entered. I also wish good luck in having a child with your girlfriend.

1. At your age, it is advised to get a complete check up before starting to think about having a child:
- complete blood count
- STDs work up
- spermogram to evaluate sperm and spermatozoids (morphology, quantity, quality, motility, etc.)
- sperm culture to rule out infection

2. Folic acid is also advised not only for women who think to have a child but to their partners too (you)

3. Masturbating is also a type of sexual behavior in cases where you do not have a partner. Luckily, you have found your partner, and already thinking to have a child. So, it is wise not to masturbate for 2 main reasons:
a- you can enjoy sex with your partner
b- you'll decrease chances for fertility

Men who think to have a baby are advised not to ejaculate too often in order to secure a good quantity and quality sperm which is needed for fertilization of the egg.

Having sex too often is also not recommended for the same reasons. Once three days you're advised to ejaculate especially during the ovulation days of your partner.

Hope it answered to your queries! Good luck again!
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar