The question of when men should start having kids is a complicated one, and depends on the individual’s personal and medical situation. However, experts have varying opinions on the best age for men to become fathers. While there isn’t one universally-agreed upon best age, read on to learn more about the potential benefits of waiting, risks of starting too early, and what experts recommend as the optimal age to start a family.
First, let’s look at the potential benefits of delaying fatherhood. The American Society of Reproductive Medicine reports that increasing paternal age is associated with enhanced offspring educational performance and higher future earnings, improved child survival and better child health outcomes. Additionally, waiting to have children until one is more settled financially can be a major plus.
According to medicalnewstoday, Due to increased societal pressure, many men today feel much of the burden of long-term planning and financial stability. When it comes time to start a family, having money saved and being able to enjoy the first few weeks and months of parental life with fewer financial stresses can be a big help.
On the flip side, starting too young can also have its risks. Men who become fathers before the age of 25, have an increased chance of having a child with a mental illness, significantly higher rates of ADHD, autism, and schizophrenia, according to a recent study conducted by the University of North Carolina.
It’s important to note that this does not mean men who become fathers at a younger age are automatically at higher risk—there are factors outside of age that increase risk—but it’s something to consider when contemplating fatherhood.
When it comes to the best age for men to start having kids, experts don’t agree on a single age. According to the Centers for Disease Control, couples typically wait until 30-34 (the optimal age, according to CDC) before they become new parents, while the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests couples wait until they’re in their late twenties.
Other factors to consider are fertility and chromosomal disorders. The fertility rate for men gradually decreases as they age, and the risk for chromosomal disorders, such as Down Syndrome, increases with age. Dr. Bruce Gilbert, President of the American Board of OBGYN says that a man’s age is “definitely a factor in determining when is the right time to begin a family.”
In a consensus statement, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine recommend that both partners should consider their age when planning a pregnancy and bring any concerns to their health care provider.
It’s important for all men considering becoming dads to talk with their health care providers and consider their personal health and the risks and benefits of waiting, or starting a family earlier. Every individual’s situation is unique and should be discussed and addressed with health care providers.
In short, the best age for men to start having kids depends on the individual’s medical, personal, and financial situation. However, many experts agree that waiting until age 30 to 34 is ideal based on the potential health benefits for the father and baby, as well as the family’s financial situation. Men considering starting a family should discuss the pros and cons of delayed fatherhood and their individual plans with their health care provider
Content created and supplied by: GroundShaker (via Opera News )
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