Our health, especially our fertility, is significantly influenced by the environment in which we live. Exposure to specific environmental factors can have detrimental consequences on reproductive health, according to a growing body of research. The relationship between environmental factors and fertility will be discussed in this blog post, along with what you need to know about how these factors may affect your potential to get pregnant.
Environmental factors: what are they?
Environmental factors are external influences that can have an effect on our health. These elements include things like pollution of the air and water, exposure to chemicals, and even dietary and exercise habits. Geographical location, climatic conditions, as well as social and economic elements, can have an impact on environmental elements, which can affect our health in both positive and negative ways.
How do environmental factors affect fertility?
Environmental factors that interfere with the reproductive process can have a direct effect on fertility. It may be more challenging to conceive as a result of reproductive organ damage and hormone disruption caused by pollution and toxin exposure. For instance, exposure to pesticides and other chemicals can interrupt ovulation and reduce a woman's fertility, while exposure to lead and other heavy metals can result in sperm abnormalities.
Environmental factors might also affect fertility indirectly by raising the chance of health conditions that can make it more difficult to conceive.
One of the primary factors of concern are Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs). These substances have been linked to issues with immune system, brain, reproductive, and developmental health.
The following 5 EDCs should be recognized:
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BPA: Since the 1950s, plastics have been produced using the chemical bisphenol A. Some evidence indicates BPAs can contaminate food or drinks. Use BPA-free goods, stay away from heating plastic, consume less canned foods, or switch to glass storage instead of plastic to reduce your exposure to BPAs.
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DDT: DDT was once a common ingredient in pesticides, but it was outlawed in the US in the 1970s. DDT is still present in the environment, nevertheless. As the rate of sperms with additional chromosomes rises, so does the likelihood of miscarriage or birth abnormalities.
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Dioxins: These pollutants are byproducts of the manufacturing process. Animal-based foods like dairy, meat, and occasionally fish expose people to dioxins because they are deposited in the fatty tissues of the animals.
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Heavy Metals: Heavy metals are substances that exist naturally in the earth and are usually not dangerous. However, overexposure to some heavy metals, like lead, mercury, and cadmium, can harm fertility. A prolonged exposure to heavy metals can result from dealing with metals frequently or from being exposed to lead paint. You might wish to have your water tested for the presence of heavy metals if your plumbing is older.
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Phthalates: Phthalates are added to plastics to increase their toughness and flexibility while lowering their hardness and stiffness. They can be discovered in blinds made of plastic, building materials, shower curtains, and even headphones wires. Some phthalate types can also be discovered in cosmetics and fragrances. Purchase non-PVC items and goods marked "fragrance free" or "phthalate-free" to reduce your exposure to phthalates.
How can you limit your exposure to environmental elements that affect fertility?
You can take a number of steps to reduce your exposure to environmental factors that may affect fertility, including:
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Be conscious of your nutrition: A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will help lower your chance of obesity, which is a risk factor for infertility.
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Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower your risk of developing health issues that could affect fertility.
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Reduce your exposure to pollutants and toxins: Be aware of your exposure to pesticides, lead, and mercury, among other pollutants and toxins. Avoid using pesticides in your house and garden and stick to natural cleaning supplies.
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Quit smoking: Both men and women who smoke have been shown to have lower fertility. Quitting smoking can increase your chances of getting pregnant.
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Get tested for environmental factors: If you suspect you have been exposed to environmental factors that can affect fertility, consult your doctor about getting tested.
Finally, there is evidence that environmental influences can significantly affect fertility. You can increase your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy baby by taking steps to minimize your exposure to chemicals and pollutants, leading a healthy lifestyle, and getting tested if you think you may have been exposed to environmental factors.
