Humans have long been captivated by space exploration, from sending spacecraft to asteroids to landing rovers on Mars. Now, with the Artemis III mission aiming to send humans back to the Moon, the question arises: Can humans have sex and get pregnant in space?
Experts interviewed by Newsweek shed light on the challenges and unknowns surrounding the possibility of sexual activities in space. The microgravity environment in space makes it difficult for objects and humans to stay in one place, posing a logistical challenge for sex in space. However, there is no scientific evidence or experiment to definitively answer this question.
Adam Watkins, an associate professor in reproductive and developmental physiology, mentioned the cramped space on the International Space Station (ISS) and the busy schedules of astronauts as potential obstacles to engaging in sexual activities in space. The lack of gravity could also pose challenges, as bodily fluids could float around in microgravity.
Maria Santaguida, a research fellow at the Astrosexological Research Institute, suggested that devices equipped with fluid suction apparatus could be used to manage the effects of weightlessness on bodily fluids. However, such devices have not been designed for space use yet.
Regarding the possibility of pregnancy in space, Watkins explained that the microgravity environment could make it difficult and might lead to developmental defects in the fetus. Advanced technologies, such as centrifugal devices, could potentially overcome the limitations of microgravity, allowing for artificial pregnancies during space travel.
Watkins also proposed the idea of sending freeze-dried sperm, eggs, and embryos to another planet or moon instead of sending a pregnant woman, considering the challenges of space pregnancy.
One additional challenge mentioned in the context of space exploration is the potential for erectile dysfunction in male astronauts. Exposure to high levels of galactic cosmic rays and weightlessness may impact sexual health, and the risk of erectile dysfunction might persist even after returning to Earth.
In conclusion, the feasibility of sexual activities and pregnancy in space depends on technological innovations to address the unique challenges posed by the microgravity environment. While the idea of space sex and reproduction remains speculative, advancements in space travel technology may bring us closer to understanding and potentially achieving these aspects of human life beyond Earth.
Post Your Comments