Laptop and tablet use and their influence on total motile sperm count parameters: are laptops linked to infertility in Jamaican men?

Authors: Sterling L, Carroll K, Harris LR

Year: 2024 Dec

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Rev Int Androl

DOI: 10.22514/j.androl.2024.027

URL: https://files.intandro.com/files/article/20241230-28/pdf/RIA20240615001.pdf

Abstract

Overview

This study sought to determine the impact of laptop and tablet use on total motile sperm count (TMSC) in men being investigated for assisted reproduction in Jamaica. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted involving 156 men attending a fertility clinic.

Methods

  • Routine semen analyses and TMSC measurement were performed.
  • Laptop and tablet use were assessed through self-report and quantified.
  • Data analysis utilized SPSS Version 26 and logistic regression to independently predict the impact of device use on semen parameters.

Findings

  • Device Usage: 64% of participants used laptops and 36% used tablets.
  • Laptop Use & Conception: A significant association was identified between laptop usage time and duration of attempting conception (p = 0.015).
  • Semen Volume: Men using laptops 2–5 hours daily were approximately 16 times more likely (aOR = 15.9; 95% CI, 2.5-103.3; p=0.004) to experience low semen volume (hypospermia).
  • TMSC Trends: While a direct association with TMSC was not statistically significant (p = 0.052), a trend towards negative impact on TMSC from high laptop use was observed, suggesting possible relevance for reproductive outcomes.

Conclusion

Clinicians should carefully consider wireless device use—including laptops and tablets—when evaluating men for fertility, as increased exposure to electromagnetic fields from such devices may negatively impact semen quality and potentially male fertility.

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