The ano-genital distance (perineal length) matters for male fertility. Men
who have a shorter ano-genital distance (AGD- distance measured from the anus
to the underside of the scrotum) have lower sperm counts, poorer quality of
sperm, lower sperm concentration in the semen and lower motility of the sperm,
say researchers of the University of Rochester Medical Center.
The study has been published in the journal Environmental Health
Perspectives. Previously the link between AGD and reproductive success in male
rats had been known and now this new study suggests that this may apply in men
Researchers measured the AGD in about 126 college students. It was found
that men whose AGD was shorter than the median length, about 52 millimeters,
were 7.3 times more likely to have a low sperm concentration. This study might
be helpful in predicting whether men with a low sperm count will be successful
in getting a woman pregnant. This technique is non-invasive and does not depend
upon temperature and stress. However to determine the normal length of AGD
several thousands of men will be required to be measured.
Studies in animals have found that male reproductive problems and shorter
AGD have been linked to exposure in the womb to endocrine disrupting chemicals
like phthalates which may interfere with testicular development. Phthalates are
found in industrial and personal care products like soaps, shampoos and some
pesticides. Researchers are speculating whether the same link applies in humans
also. Earlier research by swan has shown that during pregnancy women who had
high levels of phthalates in the urine gave birth to sons who were 10times more
likely to have shorter AGDs.