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09 February 2012

Answer to Question #2268 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Radiation Effects — Effects on Tissues and Organs

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

I am 46 years old. My boyfriend has prostate cancer. He is being treated with radiation and taking a daily oral drug. Three weeks into his treatment we had sex. Since that day (11 days now) I have had stomach cramps and diarrhea. Also I am a week late for my period. It is not possible I am pregnant. Do you think my sickness is due to his treatment or is this a coincidence?

There are two known effects of radiation on sperm. The first is death of the sperm, which usually requires some time after exposure. If this had occurred, there should be no effect on the exposed individual's sex partner. The second effect is mutation, which would result in an inherited abnormality in offspring conceived by the abnormal sperm. There should be no effect on the mother.

Conclusion: There are no data indicating that radiation could account for your symptoms. The most likely explanation is coincidence.

S. Julian Gibbs, DDS, PhD

Answer posted on 9 April 2003. The information and material posted on this website is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Website. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.