Numerous studies have associated the use of smart phones or tablets at night with sleep problems. Now, a new study has found another compelling reason to avoid using these devices before going to bed, at least in front of men who want to start a family one day. The latest research from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine shows that there is a correlation between the use of digital devices at night and poor sperm quality.
These preliminary results suggest that the more men use mobile devices, both at night in general and after bedtime, the worse the quality of their sperm.
Among men who reported frequent use of electronic devices at night and a large number of electronic devices, all three indicators of sperm quality (concentration, motility and progressive motility) were low. As a reference, progressive exercise refers to the ability of a man’s sperm to «swim» correctly. Of course, this is an important part of the conception process.
«The use of mobile phones and tablets at night and after bed is associated with a decrease in sperm quality. In addition, the use of smart phones at night, the use of tablets after bedtime and the use of television late at night are associated with a decrease in sperm concentration,» said lead researcher Dr Amit Green. Green directs research and development at the Institute of Sleep and Fatigue at Assuta Medical Center in Israel.
Sperm quality is also affected by sleep habits
In the study published by SLEEP, they collected semen samples from 116 men of different ages (21-59 years). All participants participated in the fertility assessment programme. Participants also completed surveys about their nightly routines, sleep habits and use of technical equipment.
In addition to these main findings, the researchers also noted the relationship between sperm quality and sleep habits. Men who sleep more tend to have higher sperm counts and more progressive movement. On the other hand, men who are «sleepier» generally have lower quality sperm. «To our knowledge, this is the first study that reports the correlation between sperm quality and exposure time to short wavelength light from digital media (especially smart phones and tablets),» at night and after bed. Green said.
