BPA, Toxins, Air Pollution, Pesticide and Phthalate Exposurey

The Fertility Impact:
BPA is a known xenoestrogen—it mimics the hormone estrogen in your body. This can disrupt the precise hormonal symphony required for ovulation, egg quality, sperm production, and embryo implantation.

• For Egg Health: Studies link higher BPA levels to poorer outcomes in IVF, including reduced egg maturation and fertilization rates.
• For Sperm Health: BPA exposure is associated with lower sperm count, motility, and increased DNA fragmentation.
• For the Uterine Environment: It can potentially affect the receptivity of the uterine lining, making it less likely for an embryo to implant successfully.

Phthalates

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and durable. They are also used as solvents in a vast array of personal care products.

The Fertility Impact:
Phthalates are anti-androgens, meaning they can block or reduce the function of testosterone and other androgens. This has a profound impact on reproductive health.

• For Male Fertility: This is a primary concern. Phthalate exposure is strongly linked to decreased sperm concentration, motility, and changes in male reproductive development.
• For Female Fertility: Higher levels are associated with reduced ovarian reserve, poorer egg quality, and an increased risk of endometriosis.

Pesticides

Pesticides are chemicals used in agriculture to control pests, weeds, and fungi. Residues remain on (and in) conventionally grown fruits and vegetables.

The Fertility Impact:
Many pesticides are designed to disrupt the nervous systems of pests, but they can also disrupt human endocrine systems.

• Broad-Spectrum Disruption: Exposure has been linked to a range of issues, including reduced semen quality, menstrual cycle irregularities, and increased time-to-pregnancy.
• Early Pregnancy Risk: Some pesticides are associated with an increased risk of early pregnancy loss.