Time to ditch laptops? Fertility specialist says it may cause infertility in men

Health News

The laptop contains substances like flame retardants or volatile ingredients. Prolonged exposure to these substances could threaten overall health, though further studies are required to verify their direct impact on reproductive health.

New Delhi: The primary issue with laptops is the heat they produce. Utilising a computer on your lap increases the temperature of the semen, potentially impacting sperm production. Sperm needs to remain cooler than body temperature to ensure optimal health. Prolonged exposure to heat may lead to irregular sperm shape, reduced movement ability, and lower sperm count. In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Kalyani Shrimali, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Indore, spoke about how laptops can affect fertility in men.

1. Ergonomics and body alignment: Postures unsuitable when one uses a laptop can cause slouched sitting, or one can place it on their lap. Besides the slight effects such postures can create when repeated over time, it may lead to pelvis compression and blood flow distribution to the reproductive organs, adversely affecting reproduction. Such postural variations can be corrected by the use of flexible stands or keyboards attached externally to the laptop to minimise neck potential strain and to promote correct posturing.
2. Ecological Hazard: The laptop contains substances like flame retardants or volatile ingredients. Prolonged exposure to these substances could threaten overall health, though further studies are required to verify their direct impact on reproductive health.
3. Electromagnetic waves: Despite laptops producing minimal electromagnetic radiation, research has found no connection to sexual dysfunction or infertility. Nonetheless, there are worries regarding possible lasting impacts on the reproductive system.
4. Impact of blue light: The blue light emitted by a laptop display screen can affect the circadian rhythm, leading to fitful sleep. Issues with sleep are linked to decreased testosterone levels and a lower sperm count. To reduce this, restrict screen time prior to sleeping, and think about using blue light-blocking glasses or filters.
5. Inactive lifestyle and blood circulation: Extended laptop usage frequently leads to a sedentary way of life, leading to reduced blood flow to the spinal cord. Inadequate blood circulation could hinder the blood flow necessary for sustaining an erection. Frequent walking intervals can enhance circulation and avert this impact.
6. Lifestyle elements: Side Effects intensify when poor diet, smoking, and sedentary lifestyle combine with the use of laptops as one of the unhealthy habits adopted. A wholesome regimen with physical exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management would mitigate the evils one would suffer from laptop use.
7. Awareness of outside influences: Other heat-retaining gadgets, like smartphones and tablets, can be placed in a waistband or pocket to increase the oven’s temperature. Recognizing such risks is essential.

Protective steps

1. Hydration and nutrition: Consuming antioxidants like Vitamin C and E can prevent oxidative stress.
2. Laptop stand: Utilising a laptop stand or an external keyboard could aid in minimizing adverse effects.
3. Health monitoring: Routine examinations, such as semen analysis, are crucial, particularly for individuals intending to start a family.
4. Enhancing lifestyle: Engage in regular physical activity, control stress levels, and focus on quality sleep.Although laptops alone do not directly cause infertility, prolonged improper use alongside an unhealthy lifestyle may impact a man’s reproductive health. By taking preventive actions, men can mitigate possible risks and enhance their overall wellness.

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