Space has low gravity, making it difficult for objects or humans to stay in one place, thereby excluding the logistical possibility of sex in space.
Difficulties of Sex in Space
As we already know, the low gravity in space makes it hard for objects or humans to remain stationary, which excludes the logistical possibility of sex in space. However, there is no scientific evidence or available experiments to confirm this definitively.
“No one has had sex in space, or at least no one has admitted to it,” said Adam Watkins, associate professor of reproductive and developmental physiology at the University of Nottingham, to Newsweek.
Challenges Related to Sex in Space
In addition to the difficulty of staying in one place, sex in space may face another issue: bodily fluids. In any environment with low gravity, fluids tend to gather in spherical masses, which tend to float in all directions unless quickly absorbed.
“Devices, including masturbation aids equipped with fluid suction mechanisms, can be used to deal with the effects of zero gravity on semen, secretions, and lubricants,” said Maria Santiagoida, a research fellow at the Institute for Space Sexual Research, to Newsweek. But so far, no such devices have been made for use in space.
Everything depends on technological innovations that can make sex in space not only possible but also safe, practical, and most importantly enjoyable, according to Maria.
Pregnancy in Space
The low gravity present in space will not only make pregnancy difficult but may also lead to abnormalities in fetal development.
“For pregnancy in space, the simple answer is that no one really knows,” said Watkins.
In this case as well, advanced technologies might overcome the limitations of low gravity. Watkins simply suggests using centrifuge devices to counteract the lack of gravity, as gravity plays a crucial role in shaping uterine development.
Moreover, in a scenario where humans travel to Mars or another planet or moon, we could send sperm, eggs, and frozen embryos instead of a woman who is already pregnant, according to Watkins’ suggestion.
Effect of Extended Time in Space on Erectile Dysfunction
Another reason that makes sex and pregnancy in space challenging is male erectile dysfunction. Previous studies indicate that male astronauts returning from space missions experience problems with erectile dysfunction.
Among the reasons mentioned by the study is that astronauts in space are exposed to high levels of galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) – energetic particles bombarding Earth – along with the effects of zero gravity, which in turn affect their sexual health.
According to a study published in The FASEB Journal, the risk of erectile dysfunction is not limited to when astronauts are in space, but may persist for a long time even after their return to Earth.
(With input from news agencies)
Summary
In conclusion, sex in space and pregnancy in space seem to be difficult and complex matters. These processes require advanced technology and innovations to overcome the constraints of low gravity and other negative effects of space. We may have the potential for sex and pregnancy in space in the future, but it requires a lot of research and development.
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