Yes, you read it right. We have been told a lot about the harmful effects of radiations emitted by devices like smartphones, iPads, tablets, laptops etc but its effects on fertility are largely unknown. Here is how, it happens.
This is related to the secretion of the hormone melatonin which is also known as the ‘sleep hormone’. Melatonin is secreted by pineal gland in the brain and is related to exposure of light to the body. When it’s dark, the gland secretes melatonin which helps us to sleep.
If we sleep with our phones, texting and reading stuff well into the night, it puts a check on the hormone secretion and throws the system into disarray, affecting the sleep cycle adversely.
So, how does this affect fertility?
Melatonin also has a protective action on the female egg preventing it from damage. Its suppression by artificial light may cause harm to the eggs.
This is also the reason why fertility experts’ advice women trying to get pregnant, to have at least 7-8 hours of sound sleep at night. The more light interruption at night, the less would be melatonin secretion, the less protective action and more chances of egg damage thereby, affecting fertility.
Apart from this, other factors affecting reproduction that usually go unnoticed include:
- Oral disease: Dental and reproductive systems may appear unrelated but studies reveal that poor oral hygiene or gum problem can lower one’s fertility as the inflammation affecting the gum, if left untreated, can trigger a reaction affecting the various systems of the body including reproduction.
- Strenuous exercise:Excessive exercise tends to lower the production of female hormones-FSH, LH and progesterone which are essential for egg production.
- Partner’s weight:Males need to keep their weight under control in order to start a family as too much fat can cause a dip in testosterone production affecting their sperm motility.
- Alcohol and smoking:Indulging in these stimulants by either of the partners can hamper conception.
So, when it’s time to sleep, it’s time to sleep. Tuck your smartphone away and give your body a fair chance to regulate its systems well.
Author: Dr. Nidhi Jhamb
Also read: INFERTILITY | LOW SPERM COUNT
[ecko_button color=”blue” size=”large” url=”https://www.drsafehands.com/checkout/spermcheck-fertility-home-sperm-test”]Check your sperm count today![/ecko_button]
[ecko_button color=”orange” size=”large” url=”http://www.drsafehands.com/services/fertility-clinic”]Visit DrSafeHands Fertility Clinic and get your 1st consultation for free.[/ecko_button]
