Researchers in Switzerland have discovered a potential link between mobile phone usage and lower sperm counts in men. The research, which analyzed semen samples from over 2,800 young men, found that those who reported higher frequency of mobile phone use had lower sperm concentration. The findings were published in the journal Fertility and Sterility.
Notably, the study, spanning from 2005 to 2018, did not find a difference in sperm motility or morphology across varying levels of phone usage. Additionally, no evidence suggested that carrying a phone in a trouser pocket versus a backpack impacted sperm concentration.
An interesting trend noted by researchers was a more significant association between high phone use and low sperm count in the early years of the study, potentially reflecting the transition to less powerful mobile technologies over time.
The study is adding fuel to the ongoing debate over factors affecting fertility, such as lifestyle choices and exposure to certain chemicals. It also raises concerns about the biological effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) from mobile phones on reproductive health.
While this research offers a “real-world” perspective as opposed to previous studies on mice or in vitro, experts urge caution. Both Professor Allan Pacey from the University of Manchester and Alison Campbell from Care Fertility commend the study but highlight that it only points to a correlation, not causation. They suggest that mobile phones might be indicative of other lifestyle or occupational factors that could influence sperm quality.
Given the lack of definitive biological explanation or mechanism, experts advise men not to overreact to these findings. Simple measures like storing phones in bags instead of pockets are suggested, but there is no concrete evidence that such actions would improve sperm quality. Randomized controlled trials would be needed to establish any benefit firmly.
For now, the advice is not to make any drastic changes based on this study alone. More research is needed to fully understand the implications of mobile phone use on male fertility.