Tower Urology Blog

Male infertility concerns have become increasingly common in recent decades. Worldwide, the total sperm count decreased by 62.3 percent. Researchers continue to investigate the potential causes. Possibilities range from environmental toxins to lifestyle factors. A growing body of research suggests that our constant companion, the smartphone, may play a role in male reproductive health and overall sperm health.

Could Your Mobile Phone Be Affecting Your Sperm Count

What is the connection between mobile phones and sperm quality?

Recent research has revealed a concerning association between frequent cell phone use and reduced semen quality in young men. A comprehensive cross-sectional study looked at men aged 18 to 22 and evaluated semen samples from the participants.

The study found that participants who used their phones more than 20 times daily had a 21% higher risk of low overall sperm count compared to those who used their phones less frequently. Additionally, these frequent users showed a 30% higher risk of low sperm concentration, an important parameter in semen analysis.

This new study is significant because it represents one of the most comprehensive investigations into mobile phone usage and its potential impact on reproductive medicine outcomes. It adds to the growing evidence from other observational studies and meta-analysis research that our modern lifestyle may be contributing to declining male fertility rates.

How mobile phones can impact the reproductive system

Mobile phones emit low-level radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), also known as cell phone radiation. When operating at maximum power, smartphones can generate enough heat to raise the surrounding tissue temperature by up to 0.5 degrees Celsius (up to 33 degrees Fahrenheit).

This heat generation, combined with electromagnetic field exposure, may potentially affect the testes and sperm production quality, especially if a man keeps his phone in his pocket.

Ways in which cell phone usage can influence the reproductive system include:

  • Heat generation from electromagnetic waves affecting testicular temperature.
  • Potential cellular damage from radiofrequency radiation exposure to the testicles.
  • Possible disruption of hormone production related to sperm development.
  • Impact on sperm morphology (shape) and sperm motility (movement).

Importantly, research has shown that sperm viability, or the percentage of live sperm in semen samples, along with other semen parameters, may be affected by prolonged exposure to cell phone radiation. However, the extent of these effects requires more research.

Does more advanced tech mean better semen quality?

Interestingly, recent research suggests that as mobile phone technology has advanced, its potential to impact semen quality has decreased. The strongest associations between the use of mobile phones and lower sperm counts were observed with older 2G and 3G phones. In comparison, the effects appear to be less severe with modern 4G and 5G technology.

This improvement is likely due to the reduced output power required by newer phone technologies, which emit lower levels of electromagnetic radiation while maintaining connectivity and functionality.

Should you be concerned about your cell phone affecting your fertility?

While studies have found associations between mobile phone usage and changes in quality parameters of semen, it’s important to understand that correlation doesn’t equal causation. In other words, just because two things happen together doesn’t mean one causes the other. It is important to remember that the current research has limitations, including:

  • Most studies are observational rather than controlled clinical trials.
  • Many factors that could influence sperm health aren’t always accounted for in questionnaires.
  • The relationship between sperm count and actual fertility potential is complex.
  • Self-reported data from participants may not always be accurate.

Laboratory studies in animal models have shown that cell phone radiation can affect sperm production and testicular tissue. However, translating these findings to human fertility can be challenging.

What other things can affect semen parameters?

Kidney Stones Obesity 500x500

The effects of mobile phone use are just one potential factor affecting male fertility. Other significant contributors to changes in semen quality and sperm parameters include:

  • Environmental toxins and pollutants.
  • Obesity and metabolic disorders.
  • Medical conditions like obstructive azoospermia.
  • Chronic stress.
  • Poor dietary habits.
  • Sedentary lifestyle.
  • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Age-related changes in sperm morphology and motility.

Rather than focusing solely on smartphone use, men should adopt a comprehensive approach to reproductive health that addresses multiple lifestyle factors. A holistic strategy can often be more effective than targeting individual risk factors alone.

Are there practical ways to protect male fertility?

While research continues, men concerned about fertility can take several steps to minimize potential risks:

Phone usage habits

  • Avoid carrying your smartphone in your pants pocket when possible.
  • Use speakerphone or headphones for calls instead of holding the phone against your head.
  • Limit cell phone usage.
  • Keep phones in bags, backpacks, or briefcases rather than close to the body.
  • Consider limiting Wi-Fi and Bluetooth exposure when not needed.

General fertility health

  • Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise.
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
  • Manage stress levels effectively.
  • Keep the scrotal area cool by avoiding tight clothing and excessive heat exposure.
  • Consider a comprehensive semen analysis if you’ve been trying to conceive for over a year.
  • Discuss IVF or other reproductive medicine options if natural conception proves challenging.

When to seek professional help for male fertility

While research suggests a potential association between cell phone use and sperm quality, the evidence isn’t strong enough to warrant dramatic lifestyle changes. But suppose you’ve taken simple precautions (such as limiting smartphone proximity to reproductive organs) and made appropriate lifestyle changes, and your fertility has not improved. In that case, it may be time to seek professional guidance.

Sperm health encompasses more than just count. Tower Urologists will assess your sperm motility, viability, and morphology to provide a comprehensive picture of your male fertility. Fortunately, even men with lower total sperm count can often successfully father children with appropriate medical support, including advanced reproductive medicine techniques when necessary.

Call us or request your appointment online:
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Consider Tower Urology for your reproductive health

Do you have questions or concerns about your fertility or sexual health? Tower Urology is here to help men in Los Angeles optimize their reproductive potential. Our experienced team of urologists provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for all aspects of male fertility and sexual health.

Our approach is personal—we treat patients, not just pathology.

We invite you to establish care with Tower Urology. Please make an appointment online or call us at (310) 854-9898.

Tower Urology is a proud affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, ranked #1 in California and #2 nationwide by U.S. News & World Report. This partnership reflects our dedication to delivering the highest standard of urologic care alongside the best urologists in Los Angeles. Our years of experience and access to Cedars-Sinai’s world-class facilities ensure that our exceptional and innovative urological care positions Tower Urology as a leader in Southern California.

Tower Urology is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and Los Angeles, including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Burbank, Glendale, and Downtown Los Angeles.

Frequently asked questions about sperm count

What is the average sperm count? close-icon

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a normal sperm count is at least 39 million sperm per milliliter of semen. However, what is considered a normal sperm count can range from approximately 40 million to 300 million sperm per milliliter.

What are the signs of low sperm count? close-icon

It can be hard to know if you have a low sperm count without a sperm count test, as most men don’t have any noticeable signs or symptoms. However, the inability to conceive can be a telltale sign of issues with fertility or sterility in men. After one year of trying to conceive without success, it’s suggested that you reach out to your healthcare provider.

Is there a cure for low sperm count? close-icon

While there is no definitive way to increase sperm count, lifestyle changes can help improve fertility for men. Eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding risk factors such as cell phone radiation and environmental toxins can all contribute to overall well-being. Treating underlying conditions with the help of a healthcare provider, such as the team at Tower Urology, can also help ensure that there are no barriers to your sperm count or quality.

Sources

Association between self-reported mobile phone use and the semen quality of young men
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.09.009

Causes, effects, and molecular mechanisms of testicular heat stress
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25456164/

Semen Analysis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564369/

Temporal trends in sperm count: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of samples collected globally in the 20th and 21st centuries
https://academic.oup.com/humupd/article/29/2/157/6824414?login=false

What patients say about Tower Urology

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Dr Josephson has a special place in my heart. He is a truly wonderful human being.

Etai A.
Etai A.

We’ve had a wonderful experience with Dr. Josephson. He is knowledgeable, kind and patient. I wish all my doctors were like him.

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TIFFANY S.

Dr Josephson has a magic hand. after protate surgery usually most of the patients get leaks but mine was perfect. He is very intelligent, helpful, patient, and polite. I recommend him to all my friends and family

SHAWN M.
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Dr Justin Houman has made a positive impact on my health. At first I was nervous about seeing a Urologist but he made me feel comfortable to open up and solve my problems. Highly recommend him. Five Stars ⭐️

Baguette M.
Baguette M.

Justin is a very caring doctor who always goes out of his way to address my needs.

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Alec P.

Very kind and professional Doctor. Caring and experienced staff. Lucky to have found Dr. Houman and I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a urologist.

Dreamland D.
Dreamland D.

I have been suffering from Testicular pain for the past 3.2 years, and it has been a challenging journey. If I do certain activities like long walks, lifting weights and sex triggers or worsen my testicular pain. The pain was intense enough to significantly impact my daily activities. Pain forces me to rest for 1 to 2 days and applying the Ice packs frequently. I finally met Dr. Justin Houman, who has truly been my life saver. I recently underwent Microsurgical Spermatic Cord Denervation and Varicocelectomies Surgery with Dr. Justice Houman and I noticed a significant reduction in my chronic testicular pain, which has greatly improved my quality of life. I have gradually resumed activities like long walks, lifting weights, sexual activity and I am experiencing only very minimal testicular pain, which doesn’t affect my daily activities. I would highly recommend Dr. Justice Houman to anyone suffering from chronic testicular pain, he is a true expert in men’s andrology. Dr. Houman is truly a life saver for me, Thank you very much Dr. Houman!

Kishore C.
Kishore C.

Dr.Josephson was an Answer to many prayers! I recently had surgery in Bakersfield with urologist who is past his prime. I couldn't get help after my TURP surgery. For 3 months (90 days) I was in great discomfort, unable to urinate without extreme pain. 40 times a day,wanting to cry ! My Bakersfield urologist said there was NOTHING he could do to help me. A friend sent me to Dr. Josephine. I prayed for a miracle and Dr. Josephson kindly obliged. No further surgery was needed! Dr.Josephson took the "time" to examine me and found the issue immediately and I left his office as happy a child !! Thank you,Dr.Josephson, words cannot express my gratitude enough!! You helped me greatly in my time of need! You were kind and gentle and made me feel cared for. Thank you,May God Bless You !! JSM

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I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Kuhlmann and her team. Her bedside manner was fantastic and put me at ease throughout my visits. She was responsive to my questions and fully explained my treatment plan. My quality of life has significantly improved and I am so thankful to have found a physician I can trust. Would 100% recommend.

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Jacqueline R.

Dr . Josephson is hands -down the absolute best any patient or family could ask for in a doctor . His staff is on point they run like a machine. The experience has been exceptional. His care knowledge understanding and follow up is on point and he truly is the best urologist you can find. highly recommend it .

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Sarineh Y.

Very pleasant, helpful, and very knowledgeable doesn’t do any test, which is not necessary like most of the other Urologist do give you a clear opinion of your health and give you good advice I strongly recommend him I do wish him all the best in his career

David N.
David N.

A family member was struggling with testicular pain for years and had concerns about fertility. I am so grateful that we were referred to Dr. Houman. He is very thoughtful and knowledgeable and has great bedside manner. He diagnosed a varicocele and recommended microsurgical varicocelectomy and we are so happy with the results. I highly recommend Dr. Houman.

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Dr Kuhlmann and her office were wonderful. She was attentive in answering my questions and made me feel heard. She was friendly, professional and helpful. I’d definitely go back if I had any future concerns!

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Amazing urologist. Go to expert for men’s health. I refer patients to him as often as possible!

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The best. I can’t say enough good things about the care i received and continue to receive from all the people at Tower urology especially Dr. Joesepson.

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He saved my dad’s life. Thanks for everything you did. Can never repay you.

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How did a woman with a lifetime of recurrent bladder infections wind up with a urologist whose specialty is male fertility? It happened like this...Dr. Houman was recommended to my husband when he began having the prostate problems that can devastate older men. Dr. Houman solved his urinary difficulties, and I'm convinced, kept him from the fate of a constant catheter. Naturally, I jumped at the chance to be his patient, and have been, for the first time in my life, free for several months of any infections. But the best part of being Dr. Houman's patient is this. When you are in trouble, he will keep in constant touch with you...he does not isolate himself behind a wall of nurses. Naturally, I recommend him highly, Marilyn B.

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Great doc you can trust. He's very up on all the new and modern modalities to help you and keep you healthy. Great choice and nice guy.

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Heather J.
Heather J.

My experience with Dr. Houman has been nothing but positive. He takes the time to really listen and provide solutions. I came to him, very unsure and very unhappy, with a procedure done by another doctor several years earlier. After a couple of meetings Dr. Houman assured me that he could help me. And that’s exactly what happened. I'm very pleased with the results. His bedside manner and can-do attitude, his insight, enthusiasm and quick email responses were greatly appreciated. You can’t do better than Dr. Houman. I highly recommend him.

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Dr. Kuhlmann was excellent at listening to my individual needs and exploring the best solutions possible.

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Dr. Houman is a one of a kind doctor, truly. It's a scary thing to go see a urologist, and Dr. Houman made the experience comfortable, safe, and he instilled confidence in me as a patient. My fear and worries went from 100 to zero, and I am extremely happy to have found his office. Would recommend Dr. Houman to anyone!!

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Excellent doctor! Was completely taken care of from start to finish

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Mr. E.
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Dr. Houman is knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely cares about patients. They made me feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the process. Highly recommend!

spicy G.
spicy G.

Best doctor in town!

Hannah N.
Hannah N.

Best urologist in the game. It’s never too early to consult a doctor. Justin made me feel comfortable and work through different issues that were important to me to resolve. I met with a few doctors until I found Justin. He is top notch. Highly recommend

Ryan D.
Ryan D.

Dr. Houman is a SUPERHERO. He is everything you’d dream of in a doctor and more! He takes care of my family with such kindness and expertise. We are so grateful to this outstanding urologist - he is absolutely amazing!

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Amanda M.

This is ari zoroaster dr. Houman is one of the best doctors I have ever had very professional and smart ...and super friendly that make you forget the pain of needles !!!!! Over all I am very pleased of knowing him and will keep going there.

martha F.
martha F.

Dr. Houman is an outstanding urologist. He’s professional, knowledgeable, and kind. He really took the time to thoroughly answer all my questions. I would highly recommend Dr. Houman.

Ashley H.
Ashley H.

Dr Houman is the urologist you’ve been looking for! He never shies away from a challenge and has taken excellent care of me over many hurdles! He’s dedicated to each patient, never in a rush and a talented surgeon!!

Thomas C.
Thomas C.

Dr. Kuhlmann is a fantastic urologist — she really takes the time to listen and address your concerns. I couldn’t recommend her enough

Jeremiah D.
Jeremiah D.

Dr. Kuhlmann is an excellent surgeon, physician, and clinician. She is very skilled, thorough, and attentive-she puts her patients first. I highly recommend her!

Tiffany P.
Tiffany P.

Dr. Kuhlmann is a brilliant doctor physician and excellent diagnostician. She truly listens to her patients’ concerns and uses up to date treatments. I fully trust I am receiving the best care from her!

Kayla L.
Kayla L.

Dr. Houman was the most compassionate and caring doctor that we met in our 10 day stay at the hospital. He is a knowledgeable doctor that genuinely wants to help.

Joseph S.
Joseph S.

Dr. Kuhlmann is extremely knowledgeable and a truly caring physician. She has a way of communicating confidence and expertise while also meeting each of her patients on their level. Very professional and goes the extra mile for everyone she cares for.

Samuel G.
Samuel G.

Dr. Houman was amazing, don’t typically do reviews but he was extremely thoughtful and helpful. Highly recommend!

Michael S.
Michael S.

Best of the bests! Highly recommend Dr. Houman

Janet N.
Janet N.

Dr. Houman is the BEST! He literally saved my grandpa's life and he couldn't be more kind and thoughtful. If Dr.Houman is your doctor then you're in amazing hands! Thank you Dr.Houman

Ella N.
Ella N.

Dr Kuhlmann is a fantastic physician. She is very caring and attentive. I appreciate her dedication.

Danielle B.
Danielle B.

When my patient’s need a urologist, I go to Dr. Kuhlmann. She is my top choice for urologic care in the region. Desmond Huynh, MD

Desmond H.
Desmond H.

Excellent physician and great listener. Most physicians don’t take the time to understand or put themselves in their patient’s shoes. Dr. Kuhlmann is the opposite of that. Highly recommend.

Joleen H.
Joleen H.

Dr. Paige Kuhlmann is a warm, caring, compassionate and smart doctor. She went out of her way to accommodate my mom and made her feel so comfortable. I give her a 10 out of 10!

Wendy F.
Wendy F.

Extremely knowledgable and informative.

Leslie M.
Leslie M.

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