In a day and era where we are too dependent on technology with unlimited use of cell phones, laptops, computers, tablets and wireless connections we often ignore its ill-effects on our health. However, we pay for it dearly without even knowing the reason behind our various health problems. It is a known fact that technology today affects both male and female fertility in big way. ‘Research says that compared to the United States an average Indian is exposed five to ten times higher levels of electromagnetic radiation, emitted from cellular towers and cell phones. Clinical data estimates that almost 15% of Indian couples suffer from some form of infertility due to exposure to radiations,’ Dr. Sneha Sathe, Consultant- Nova IVI Fertility, Mumbai.
How cell phone radiations and EMR affects fertility and conception:
The effects of radiation from cell phones, laptops and the likes results in DNA damage and inability to self-repair, lowers immunity, decreases melatonin levels, results in cell damage and many more.
Radiation is drawn to the cells that have the highest growth and division rate such as sperm, ova and the growing fetus. This in turn hampers conception and also increases the chances of termination of pregnancy in a pregnant mother.
It can lead to serious health hazards including cancer, nervous disorder and even infertility. Here is what you should know about thyroid problems during pregnancy.
Wireless technology such as wireless internet, computer networks and hot-spots as well as wireless mice, keyboards and speakers, also operate by using radio frequency non-ionizing radiation similar to that used by mobile and are equally harmful.
Exposure to low-level electromagnetic waves radiated from wireless technology devices can in the same way have grave impact on to health and fertility, causing cellular damage and increased risk of cancer. Know which of these five reasons are coming in your way of conception.
How radiation affects male fertility
‘In men, studies indicate that cell phone use can affect sperm count, their motility as well as their morphology. Radiations emitted while using laptop placed on lap for long periods of time may also affect sperm quality and quantity. This is due to the heat generated by the laptop. Testicles are more vulnerable to heat than ovaries, so women are unlikely to be affected in the same way,’ says Dr. Sathe.
How radiations affects female fertility
As per a study conducted by the Ohio State University College of Medicine, women who lived within 100 meters of cell phone towers have more stress and a two-fold increased risk of infertility. For women trying to get pregnant, stress is measured by the protein (alpha-amylase) levels in their saliva. According to the study, women with highest levels of this protein in their saliva had a 29 percent lower probability of pregnancy compared to those with the lowest levels.
What harm can radiations do to a pregnant woman?
Research also suggests that exposure to cellular radiation could be harmful to both expectant mothers and their unborn children. ‘Exposure to radiation in the last months of pregnancy can affect the spinal cord of the baby. Most cell phones transmit and receive Radiofrequency (RF) radiation at frequencies between 825 and 915 megahertz (MHz). These radio waves are emitted by both cell phone handsets and base stations,’ says Dr. Sathe. RF radiation has the ability to heat human tissue, similar to the way in which a microwave oven heats food. The thermal effects produced by the electromagnetic field of the radio waves causes polar molecules in the body to generate dielectric heat and this heat can cause live tissue to die.
How to limit ill effects of cell phone radiation:
To overcome fertility problems, it’s important to make conscious choices and use technology judiciously. Simple lifestyle changes like avoid keeping phones in pocket; distance cell phone from belly when pregnant and use of texting more than talking can go a long way in ensuring a healthy life. Use a cell phone radiation shielding device.
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