It is believed that environmental factors may create toxic environments which can affect reproduction. The possible outcomes can be bad functioning of gonads (ovaries and testicles), genital malformations, endometriosis, formation of fibroids in the uterus, premature ovarian failure, polycystic ovaries and even preeclampsia.
Different analyses and associations concluded that lead may delay the onset of secondary sexual characteristics. Bisphenol A can impact the development of polycystic ovaries. Phthalates, dioxins and pesticides are supposed to cause endometriosis. Premature ovarian failure is related to exposure to pesticides and dioxins. General sterility is associated with hard metals, pesticides, dioxins and bisphenol. In general, women exposed to these harmful products two years before trying to become pregnant had a much higher prevalence of infertility.
Further on, we will indicate the products which can affect reproduction:
Lead is an element found in tobacco and contaminated food products. According to Chang (2006), it can be the cause of the increase in human reproductive sterility.
Herbicides are products used in gardening and crop cultivation. Greeley (2003) found that their use can produce a light decrease in fertility.
Pesticides (PCB) are present in industrial lubricants and contaminated food products. Men exposed to pesticides have a lower volume of sperm, lower quantity and mobility of spermatozoids.
Insecticides can reduce the overall quality of sperm in men who due to work motives are exposed to this chemical. Now, insecticides can still be found in contaminated food products.
Phthalates are present in detergents, perfumes and cosmetic products. People who are overly exposed to these products can suffer a decrease in all seminal parameters and require more time to become pregnant.
Bisphenol A, which can be found in PVC, plastics and bottles, can be one of the causes of repeated miscarriages.
Dioxins in contaminated foods can increase the time necessary to become pregnant and even cause sterility. They can lead to a higher level of gonadotropins in men which reduce testosterone.
Perfluorinated compounds (PFOS) are ingredients in the packaging of food products, they cover pans and other kitchen utensils. These compounds can be detrimental to general health when overexposed.
Due to lacking studies, it is difficult to establish clearly how environmental substances can affect natural and assisted reproduction techniques and the development of pathologies in adults whose mothers were in contact with some harmful substances. Besides, it is very dependent on the dose and time of exposure.
Researchers should carry out large-scale public healthcare projects to clarify the influence of these environmental factors. Due to the great number of chemical products surrounding us, measuring the exposition time from which the substance becomes toxic is crucial.
Gregorio Manzanera
IMAGE: https://www.gomezroig.com/la-influencia-del-ambiente-en-la-salud-materno-infantil/
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