Increasing Pollution – A Threat to Fertility

Pollution is on a hike these days which is much beyond the acceptable limits. The air quality index recorded was 451. This is the maximum index recorded till now. Scientists also reveal that living in a city can harm the fertility of women. It was found that couples who reside nearer to main roads are at more risk of getting infertility disorders than who lives far away from such areas and where the air is clean. There are a huge number of pollutants in the air which affects the fertility of men and women both. Although this risk is slight, it can be a global health issue. It may not affect particular men or women but can affect society as a whole.

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How air pollution results in infertility?

Air pollution contains toxic pollutants which can affect physiological functions including reproduction also. In studies, it was found that airborne particles of the size PM2.5 along with nitrous oxide can result in short-term infertility in couples.

Increasing levels of pollutants can result in precipitation of oxidative stress. Thus the creation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can lead to decreased egg and sperm quality by damaging DNA, cellular organs and cell wall. The combination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and particulate matter are found to be the cause of reduced fertility.

Living in urban areas is further exacerbating this risk of infertility. The pollutants and the harmful toxins present in pollution can block the working of androgen hormones in the body thereby leading to a disruption in the reproduction process and hormonal balance. Alteration in the expression of some genes can also be seen due to exposure to pollution.

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Male infertility

In males, Air pollution can result in DNA damage, decreased sperm quality and changes in sperm morphology. Pollution contains heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are linked to sperm damage and ultimately infertility. Also coming in contact with a free radical present in air pollution can cause DNA damage and can change cellular processes in the body.

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Female infertility

In females, reproductive functions are affected badly due to exposure to air pollution. This can have severe effects on fertility, pregnancy outcomes and fetal health. Air pollution is also associated with intrauterine growth retardation, decreased fertility, premature birth, low birth weight, and neonatal death. Living in a high air pollution area can affect fertility and lower sperm quality. Air pollution not only degrades the quality of ovum but also the risk of miscarriage increases after conceiving.

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These increasing levels of traffic fumes and air pollution in the cities are increasing the risks of infertility in both men and women.

Tips to prevent the risk of infertility due to air pollutants

When it comes to preventive measures there is not much one can do to protect themselves from this pollution. For the people working in chemical industries or construction sites, it is not very easy to protect them.

Check out the following tips:

Timely check on pollution levels can help you to take appropriate precautionary measures.

Keep some indoor plants at your home and especially in bedrooms to reduce the harmful effects of pollution

Installing an air purifier along with anti-pollution plants can also be a wise decision.

Try to avoid going out as much as possible. If still, you have to go out then it is necessary to cover your face with good quality mask appropriately to avoid the inhalation.

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated as this can help to reduce the effect of toxic pollutants.

Consuming a healthy diet which helps to remove the toxins from the body can be very effective.

Practicing yoga can also help to reduce the impact

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Looking towards the impact of increasing pollution it becomes necessary to take some precautionary measures to improve the quality of air. This is a key priority for not only the governments but also for common people.