Non-stochastic effects of ionising radiations on gonads

Radiation-induced cell damage in the gonads impairs fertility. Information on radiation effects on human fertility is available from reports on therapeutic and experimental exposure. Dose-effect relationships differ in males and females. Fractionated gonad doses of 0.35 Gy cause marked temporary reduction in sperm count, whereas similarly fractionated ovarian doses up to 1.5 Gy have no apparent effect in women aged 20 to 30. Although single testicular doses of 0.5 to 3 Gy cause aspermia, recovery is likely. Return to pre-irradiation sperm counts occurs about 30 months after single doses of 2 and 3 Gy. The ovary also has capacity for recovery, particularly in women aged less than 40 years.