Effects of magnetic fields on sperm parameters

Date

2007-12

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Abstract

With one-in-seven couples requiring assistance to conceive, more and more semen samples are being potentially being exposed to Electromagnetic fields (EMF) during processing. EMF’s are present everywhere in society. People are exposed to electromagnetic fields everyday. Not only are there are natural electromagnetic fields that are found which include thunderstorms and the Earth’s own magnetic field, but there are many man-made electromagnetic fields that many people are exposed to during both periods of work and leisure. Examples of possible EMF producers would include the expected: X-ray equipment, laboratory equipment, and even computers, to the unexpected and used everyday: cell phones, hairdryers, and TVs. As defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), an electric field is a field that is created by differences in voltages and magnetic field is a field that is created when electric current flows. Once the sperm have been collected into the container, many samples are placed in an incubator to keep the sample warm until it can be analyzed or processed. Samples may also have to be centrifuged as part of processing. Both of these instruments give off an electromagnetic field. In the present experiment semen samples were exposed to the electromagnetic field that is given off by laboratory equipment (incubators and centrifuges) is enough to be detrimental to the sperm. Six pig semen samples were obtained from the TTU swine farm in New Deal, TX. Samples were processed and exposed to EMF consistent with the time semen sample might be proceed. The samples were then monitored for motility, forward progress and acrosome reaction at various times over 24 hrs. Data analysis is pending. Preliminary results do show that on comparison of forward progression and motility, there is little difference between the centrifuge and the control. If these experiments show any effect, there should be follow up studies done to see if the results can be reproduced and suggest changes labs can institute to lessen EMF exposure in the reproductive laboratory.

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Keywords

Sperm parameters, Magnetic fields

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