A family doctor in Waterford has said she would rather see young men "play tiddlywinks or chase girls" than play rugby.
Dr Chantelle MacNamara stressed the dangers associated with rugby - drawing particular attention to the frequency of neck injuries, some of which have led to death or paralysis.
The doctor acknowledged that dangers are inherent in all field sports but said she wants measures put in place to protect rugby players from life-threatening neck injuries.
"I am challenging the IRFU to introduce greater safeguards in this area and have been on to the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dún Laoghaire and it would appear there are more serious neck injuries from rugby than any of the other popular sports.
"No sport should ever be responsible for a young man ending up in a wheelchair."
Dr MacNamara said protective gear could save lives.
"I have a friend who is a neurologist in California and I have asked him about American football. In his opinion, if those players didn't wear their protective clothing and headgear, then half the players would be dead after each game - literally dead."
She stressed that men did not have to prove their manliness by playing a sport that may put their lives at risk.
"I just feel that there is a terrible macho image attached to all of this and I always say that I prefer men who are in touch with their feminine side. I just think rugby ignores that part of the male personality."
While acknowledging that rugby referees have a key role to play in maintaining player safety, Dr MacNamara said: "Human nature being what it is, it is very difficult to get everything right in these situations.
"It puts a terrible onus on a referee and my heart goes out to any ref in that position. You don't have that onus on a soccer, hurling or hockey referee. I just believe it is a very dangerous game and must be revamped.
"In the meantime, I would encourage my three sons - and any other men - to stick with tiddlywinks and chasing girls rather than risking rugby."