Guys is your laptop affecting your fertility 1260x542
15 Mar 2011

Guys, is your laptop affecting your fertility?

2 mins to read
New research suggests that laptop computers may have a negative influence on sperm quality. Online personal trainer Andrew Cate looks at the implications for your future fertility.


Because the testes are held by the scrotum outside the body, they are usually a degree or two cooler than inside your body. In fact, sperm production is dependent upon a temperature 2°C to 4°C below the core body temperature.

It is generally assumed that the lower temperature leads to reduced rates of oxidative DNA damage and hence to fewer mutations in resulting sperm. In other words, a warmer scrotum means its contents will have to work harder to produce healthy sperm for conception.

An external source of heat such as a laptop computer placed close to the scrotum can significantly increase scrotal temperature, and it may impact negatively on future fertility. This is of particular concern because laptop computers are widely used by young men of reproductive age.

The research

A 2010 study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility measured the scrotal temperature of men balancing laptops on their knees. The results suggested that even with a lap pad under the computer, the men's scrotums heated quickly. After one hour sitting with the legs closed, the testicle temperature had risen by up to 2.5°C. Yet previous research has found that testicular or scrotal temperature elevation above just 1°C  was associated with a considerable negative effect on sperm cell development (spermatogenesis) and fertility.

The research also suggested that it took longer for the testicles to become overheated when men sat with their legs spread wide. This research does not suggest that laptop use will make you infertile. However, frequent use might not allow enough time for cooling between heat exposures, and it may contribute to changes in male reproductive function.

Lifestyle solutions

There are some strategies you can adopt to help minimise the influence of laptop computers on your fertility, including the following:

  • Sit your laptop on a desk or table whenever possible.
  • If you must rest your portable computer on your lap, try to sit with your legs spread wide apart.
  • Take a break every 20-30 minutes when using a portable computer on your lap.
  • Don’t rely on a lap pad to prevent a raise in scrotal temperature.
  • When choosing a laptop, look for models that feature a low heat output.
  • Consider using a notebook computer or tablet for your portable computing, as they generally produce less heat. 
  • Be aware of the other causes of scrotal heat stress, including occupational exposure to high temperatures, prolonged car driving, heated car seats and sedentary work.
  • Pay attention to other important lifestyle factors that maximise fertility, such as getting all the nutrients your body needs, exercising regularly and managing your stress.

Are you trying to conceive? Chat about it in our Men's Health Community.

References available on request


 



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