Could Porn in Our Pockets be Linked to Lower Sperm Counts?
In response to Jake Shields' tweet suggesting that porn consumption through smartphones may be linked with lower sperm counts, experts weigh in on what steps should be taken if this turns out true - such as limiting screen time overall - while also stressing the need for further research into how technology affects our reproductive health
Dec. 24, 2022 2:23AM
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A man holding his smartphone with a warning sign reading "Limit Screen Time" next him
In a recent tweet, Jake Shields of American Jiu-Jitsu expressed his concern that the prevalence of porn in our pockets at any given time might have something to do with lower sperm counts. He suggested that we take a week off from the internet to replenish. While there is no scientific evidence yet to back up this claim, it has sparked an important conversation about how technology can affect our reproductive health. The rise of smartphones and their easy access to pornography has been linked to a decrease in sexual satisfaction and an increase in erectile dysfunction among men. However, until now there hasn’t been much research done on whether or not it could be related to lower sperm counts. It is known that excessive heat can reduce sperm count, and many people keep their phones close by at all times which could lead to increased exposure to heat. Additionally, some studies have shown that radiation from cell phones can damage sperm cells and reduce fertility. Experts are divided on the issue; some say that more research needs to be done before drawing any conclusions while others believe there is enough evidence available already for us to take precautions against potential risks associated with excessive phone use. Dr. Yolanda Kirkham, an endocrinologist at Toronto’s Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, says “We know too much of anything isn’t good for us – whether it’s food or alcohol or even spending too much time on our devices – so I think taking breaks from technology is always a good idea." For those who are concerned about their reproductive health but don’t want to give up their phones completely, there are steps they can take such as keeping their phones away from their bodies when not in use and avoiding direct contact with the skin while using them. Additionally, limiting screen time overall can help reduce exposure levels and improve overall wellbeing. While more research needs to be done before we can draw any definitive conclusions about the link between porn consumption and lower sperm counts, Shields' suggestion provides an interesting starting point for further exploration into how technology affects our reproductive health.