Historically, infertility is defined as the inability to conceive following 1 year of regular unprotected intercourse. This definition is reduced to 6 months for women aged 35 or older. According to the World Health Organization, infertility affects between 48 and 186 million individuals of reproductive age globally. Numerous etiologies for infertility exist, including ovulatory dysfunction, diminished ovarian reserve, tubal factor, male factor, multifactorial etiologies, and unexplained infertility.
Exposure to toxic substances is common. Some groups face higher risks of exposure, including individuals in polluted areas, outdoor workers, those handling pesticides, and people working with chemicals, radiation, or heavy metals. Residents in low-income communities also tend to have greater exposure. Environmental toxins are ubiquitous and sometimes implicated in infertility development, either through anatomical abnormalities or endocrinological dysfunction. Research has shown that individuals are exposed to a variety of toxic substances in the preconception timeframe. Knowledge and experience in evaluating exposure to environmental toxins are critical.
Environmental toxins affect individuals throughout their lifespan. Several mechanisms may cause fertility impairment. These include a resultant imbalance in hormones, decreased oocyte quality due to toxicity, decreased quality of sperm, and injury to the developing embryo. Effects can begin prenatally, leading to changes in fetal development, genetic mutations, and congenital disabilities. Other effects include ovulatory dysfunction and altered semen quality. This activity is a focused review of the specific toxins known tthatnce fertility and the recommended evaluation, treatment, and prognosis for affected patients.
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