Association between paternal age and singleton birthweight in frozen embryo transfer cycles

Abstract

Plain English summary Currently, many couples delay childbearing until after the age of 40. The natural decline of fertility of elderly couples forces them to utilize assisted reproductive technology. Although males continuously produce sperm throughout their entire life, their sperm quality decreases, changes occur in reproductive hormones, the incidence of de novo mutations increases, and negative behavioral choices could cause a decline in males’ fertility potential after the age of 40. Due to their age women may also face fertility issues that have an impact on pregnancy and childbirth. This study only included couples who had successfully given birth in frozen embryo transfer cycles. Considering that birthweight is an important indicator of neonatal health, we explored the association between paternal age and singleton birthweight. Our study found that paternal age is not associated with mean birthweight and gestational age- and gender-adjusted birthweight (Z-scores) of singletons in FET cycles, showing chances of successful pregnancy in couples over 40 years of age have improved.

Keywords

• Assisted reproductive technology
• Frozen embryo transfer
• Vitrification
• Paternal age
• Birthweight