Doctor backs 55-year limit after treating men up to 75
Tuesday 1st September 2026 on 12:45 in
Denmark
Men aged 55 and over will no longer be referred for fertility treatment in Denmark’s public healthcare system, a decision welcomed by Anja Pinborg, professor of reproductive medicine and chief consultant at the fertility clinic at Rigshospitalet. DR reported the change.
Staff at the clinic responded with quiet applause when Danish Regions announced the new limit. They had long questioned whether public funds should be used to help men become fathers at a very advanced age.
“We have treated men up to the age of 75, and we had no possibility of saying no,” Pinborg said. “I think 55 is very sensible.”
She said the clinic had encountered fertility problems among several older men because of their low sperm quality. Sperm quality declines with age, sometimes leaving very limited chances of successful treatment.
Danish Regions cited a link between the father’s age and an increased risk of pregnancy complications and health problems for the child. Pinborg said the reasoning was supported by clear evidence.
“There are more genetic errors in the DNA, which means a greater risk of birth defects and premature birth. There is very clear documentation of that,” she said.
She also pointed to an increased risk of autism and schizophrenia in children as the father’s age rises.
In a memo sent to DR News, Danish Regions referred to research showing that men aged 55 to 60 face a slightly increased risk of genetic mutations, pregnancy complications, reduced fertility, schizophrenia and autism. These factors can affect the chances of a successful pregnancy and the child’s long-term health, the memo said.
The age limit for publicly funded fertility treatment for men will take effect on January 1, 2027. Men already undergoing treatment on that date will be exempt and may complete their ongoing treatment.
Men over 55 will still be able to receive fertility treatment at private clinics. For women, the referral age limit is 40, although treatment may continue until the woman turns 41.