Changes in Men

In men, the decline in reproductive ability is more gradual. The male reproductive glands are the testes which are located in the scrotum. They secrete testosterone and produce spermatazoa. With aging, the rate of sperm production slows although there are few changes in sperm number so this does not affect fertility. However, there may be an increase in chromosomal abnormalities. By the age of 85 there is a 35% decrease in the level of testosterone and a reduction in the size of the testes. The amount of fluid ejaculated remains the same. Declining levels of testosterone may be partly responsible for losses in muscle strength.

With aging, a decrease in the "sex drive" may occur and sexual response may become slower and less intense. These changes may be related to testosterone levels as well as other factors such as disease, medications, or psychosocial aspects of aging. Erectile dysfunction (impotence) increases with age; about 15% of men age 65 cannot achieve or maintin an erection.