Invisible Waves, Visible Consequences: Environmental Radiation's Role in Human Fertility

Environmental radiation is one of the key causes of the increased prevalence of infertility among couples. This type of radiation can be ionizing or non-ionizing. While ionizing radiation is known to cause sterility in both males and females, the role of low-energy non-ionizing radiation is still debated. This article will discuss the various types of environmental radiation and its consequences on male and female fertility. Recent studies suggest that continuous exposure to low-energy, non-ionizing radiation might also result in infertility. The sources of this type of radiation are generally man-made, including mobile phones, television broadcasts, radio, radars, etc. The ever-increasing use of these devices in our daily lives has introduced a new type of pollution called electropollution. The mechanisms of action by which electropollution causes infertility are still being investigated. In males, prolonged exposure to this type of radiation might negatively impact sperm parameters, such as count, motility, morphology, and viability. The evidence for female infertility caused by non-ionizing radiation is still evolving.