There are many changes that take place in the female reproductive system. After a female experiences their last menstrual cycle, it is possible for them to enter a transition period, called climacteric, before they have the menopause. Menstruation becomes more irregular. Prior to menopause, fertility varies depending on hormone levels.

During menopause, eggs (ova) are no longer produced or released by the ovaries and the menstrual cycle stops. This happens at around the age of 50 and for a much lower number, it can sometimes happen earlier. Hormone levels that stimulate reproduction decrease more and more. The vagina becomes shorter and the vaginal walls become thinner and lose their elasticity. Once menopause has occurred, reproduction is no longer possible.

Possible indications of changes in the male reproductive system are in the areas of testicular tissue, production of sperm and erectile dysfunction. A gradual decline in performance or quality can occur. Sperm is carried in tubes that lose their elasticity and although the testes continue to produce sperm, the rate of production of sperm cell slows significantly. A few surface cells of the epididymis, seminal vesicles and prostate gland are lost but they are able to carry on producing seminal fluid.

Fertility is variable from men to men, and age isn’t necessarily an obvious factor of male fertility. The volume of fluid in ejaculation usually remains the same, but fertility can be affected if there are fewer living sperm in the fluid.