The Effects of Microwave on the Ovary and Fertility of Female Balb/C mouse

The increasing use of microwave appliances such as mobile phones in daily life has caused some anxiety about its possible effects on human health. In this study, we investigated the effects of microwave on the gonads and fertility rate of female Balb /C mouse. At first, an experimental generator microwave system was designed. Then, adult virgin females were exposed to waves for 4 days (6 hours per day) and their blood were applied for hormone assay of FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone. The size and weight of ovaries were recorded and the structure and ultrastructure of them were examined by light and transmission electron microscope. Some females were placed in a cage with male individual of the same strain for mating, then the pregnancy rate was estimated and their offsprings were maintained in animal house until puberty. After puberty, ovaries were examined. The results did not show any significant difference in the size and weight of ovaries (P> 0.05), FSH, LH, estradiol, did not show change (P>0.05), but the results of transmission electron microscopy showed changes in ovary and follicle structure and also progesterone levels. The percentage of mating showed a significant reduction (P<0.05).