Urology Associates of Kingsport

Laptop Use can Overheat Scrotum and Affect Sperm Quality

 

Sitting with a laptop computer on the lap can increase the temperature of the scrotum, adversely affecting sperm quality, according to a recent report in Fertility and Sterility (Fertility and Sterility, 2011, Feb; 95(2); 647-51).

Researchers, led by Yefim Sheynkin, MD, of the State University of New York at Stony Brook, hooked thermometers to the scrotums of 29 young men who were balancing a laptop on their knees. They fouond that even with a lap pad under the computer, the men's scrotums overhested quickly.

"Within 10 or 15 minutes, their scrotal temperature is already above what we consider safe, but they don't feel it," Dr. Sheynkin said.

After 1 hour of holding a laptop on the knees with legs together, the participants' testicle temperature had risen by up to 2.5 degrees C (4.5 degrees F).

When men sat with their legs spread far apart, they could keep the area cooler. However, it still took less than 30 minutes before they began overheating.

 

 

 

Copyright and Source: Reuters Health, January, 2011

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Last updated: January 31, 2011