Good air quality is essential for maintaining overall health, as our health reflects what we breathe. But poor air quality can cause short to long-term effects on our health. It causes many health issues like asthma, cancer and cardiovascular disease and now many studies have claimed that air pollution affects fertility. A study by WHO shows that 1 out of 6 couples globally cannot conceive a baby.
Infertility issues are rising due to many factors, air pollution is a significant one that we often overlook. It happens due to various pollutants present in the environment.
Pollutants that affect fertility
There are various pollutants released into the atmosphere are the source of air pollution. These include carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM10), and PM2.5. These pollutants are emitted from various sources such as factories, vehicles, construction, wildfires and others. This poses severe risks to both male and female fertility.
Air pollution affects Male fertility
A recent study has revealed that air pollution exposure is linked to a decrease in male sperm quality. It has been found that PM2.5 exposure leads to a decrease in sperm motility and morphology. It shows how air pollution and male fertility correlate. Data shows that ozone (O3) reduces sperm count in men, while other pollutants negatively impact male testosterone levels. This leads to issues such as sperm DNA fragmentation and sperm aneuploidy, further compromising male fertility.
Air Pollution affect female fertility:
More women are now dealing with hormonal disorders that impact their reproductive hormones. A toxic environment significantly disrupts hormone levels, menstrual cycles and reproductive function. The effects also occur even with IVF for getting pregnant. According to studies, women who live in highly polluted locations have a 10–20% lower chance of successfully conceiving and implantation than women who live in cleaner areas.
How does Air pollution affect pregnancy?
Air pollution can influence the comfort and satisfaction level of any person. Any person’s degree of comfort and happiness can be impacted by air pollution. It may eventually reduce the chances of getting pregnant. because hormone levels are triggered by stress levels during pregnancy or fertility treatments. Consequently, it may result in miscarriages and related issues. As a result, the couple may have trouble getting pregnant.
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Prevent Fertility Issues by Reducing Air Pollution Exposure
Air pollution exposure can significantly impact fertility, but certain measures can help minimize its effects. Raising awareness about pollution exposure and preventive strategies should become a standard practice in fertility treatment plans to ensure better reproductive outcomes.
- Monitor Air Quality: Regularly check the Air Quality Index (AQI) through reliable sources to plan outdoor activities. Install indoor air quality monitors to ensure a safe environment at home.
- Use Air Purifiers: Invest in air purifiers with HEPA filters to improve indoor air quality, essential for pregnant women and infants.
- Limit Outdoor Exposure: Avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. Plan indoor alternatives for exercise and recreation to reduce pollutant exposure.
- Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Combine protective measures with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise to strengthen the body’s resilience against pollutants.
By staying aware and taking proactive steps, you can safeguard your health and reduce the risk of fertility issues linked to air pollution.
