It has long been know that for normal sperm production to occur in humans, scrotal temperatures must be 4-7 degrees Fahrenheit below core body temperature. With the increase in use of laptop computers, which can produce increased heat near the scrotum, concern has been raised about their contribution in men to abnormal sperm production.
Researchers at the State University of New York at Stony Brook studied the effect of laptop computer use on scrotal temperature with and without the use of a laptop heat shield. They found that the most important contributing factor to raising scrotal temperature was the leg position typically used with a laptop computer. Even when a heat shield was used, if the thighs were close together, scrotal temperature would increase. The increase in scrotal temperature that would affect sperm production occurred within 11 minutes with thighs together and no heat shield, 14 minutes with thighs together and a heat shield, and in 28 minutes when the man positioned his thighs at least 70 degrees apart and used a heat shield.
In summary, this study demonstrated that a laptop heat shield pad is insufficient protection against scrotal temperature elevations that can lead to abnormal sperm production.
Read complete study on scrotal temperature >>
Community Reproductive Endocrinology, in conjunction with Assisted Fertility Services in Indianapolis, Indiana offers a full range of andrology services for male infertility, including semen analysis, sperm washing for interuterine insemination procedures, sperm cryopreservation (freezing) and sperm DNA assessment.
To set up a consultation, please call 317-621-0600.
Genesis and Gary were unable to get pregnant due to Genesis not having regular ovulation. She had conceived her first child after using injections of ovarian stimulating medication. Now, the couple wanted another baby. After trying on their own for six months, they saw Dr. Carnovale. He recommended trying clomiphene for ovulation induction before using the injectible medications again. At her baseline ultrasound before taking clomiphene, Genesis was found to have an ovarian cyst. Dr. Carnovale advised her to wait for the cyst to shrink on its own before using the clomiphene. After two months, the cyst had shrunk and Genesis was able to take the clomiphene. She developed two mature follicles and took HCG to induce egg release. Intrauterine insemination, or IUI, was added to improve the couple’s chances. After their first try Genesis was pregnant. They have been referred back to her ob/gyn for ongoing care.
Date: August 30, 2010