Scrotal cooling and its benefits to male fertility: A systematic review

Abstract

The aim of this study was to systematically review the evidence for the impact of scrotal cooling on spermatogenesis. EMBASE (1980–2010) and MEDLINE (1950–Sept. 2010) databases were searched using the terms ‘male infertility or subfertility or fertility’, combined with a separate search of ‘scrotal cooling’, without any limits or restrictions. A total of eight articles met the criteria for inclusion in the study. There was insufficient evidence to draw any firm conclusions about the impact of scrotal cooling on male fertility. A positive trend of improved male fertility was however observed. There is therefore a need for well designed randomised controlled trials.

Keywords::

• Male fertility
• male infertility
• male subfertility
• scrotal cooling

Acknowledgements

We thank the staff at the University of Nottingham Library and colleagues for guidance on the use of the electronic gateway.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.