Laptops are now an essential element of our lives. They’re practical, portable, and everybody seems to have an electronic device nowadays. However, despite what they say the laptop doesn’t have a place to your lap. Putting the laptop on your lap may be detrimental to the health of male reproductive health, mostly because of the increased temperature of the scrotum and the potential the exposure of electromagnetic radiation.
The Impact of Heat on Male Reproductive Health
There is a negative correlation between heating exposure and male’s sperm count and the quality. Men’s reproductive organs are extremely sensitive to changes in temperature. The scrotum is specifically designed so that the testes stay warmer than other parts of your body. It is typically between 2 and 3 degrees Celsius below body temperature. The cooler temperature is essential for the production of sperm as well as its function.
Doctor. Priyanka Reddy, Consultant – Infertility Specialist, Obstetrician and Gynecologist and Minimal Access Surgery in Motherhood Fertility as well as IVF, Indiranagar, and HRBR Layout, Bangalore, she explains “When the laptop is placed on a lap and it is heated, it could improve the temperature of the scrotal area and could cause the condition known as hyperthermia in the scrotal area. This could affect spermatogenesis, the process through which sperm is made which can result in an improve in the number of sperm as well as motility.”
Sitting Posture and Heat Trapping
The way that people sit when with the computer can contribute to the issue. The knees overlapping trap the heat and raises the the temperature of the scrotal area. Even together lap pads or a cushion may not be enough to avoid hyperthermia in the scrotal area. If a laptop is put on the lap for a long period of time it is likely that the temperature of the testicle stays constant which leaves no time for it to revert back to normal.
Potential risks from Electromagnetic Radiation
Laptops are known to emit electromagnetic radiation. It is currently under study, however, it could pose a risk to the health of sperm. Exposure to radiation for long periods may cause the oxidative stress of the sperm cells and altering their health and motility. Although more research is required to better understand the effects the laptop’s radiation has on the quality of sperm and quantity, it’s a good idea to take preventive measures.
Steps to Reduce Risks
Because of the risks that could be posed and the potential dangers, it is advised to men not place laptops directly on laps. They should instead put laptops at a desk or table, with adequate ventilation to avoid overheating. This easy adjustment could benefit reduce the risk associated with a higher scrotal temperature as well as exposed to radiofrequency.
Conclusion
Laptops are a great opportunity for functionality and convenience, together them directly on the lap could have significant impacts on the health of male reproductive health. By recognizing the dangers and taking proactive steps men can safeguard their reproductive health, without compromising productivity.