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Instructor/Advisor

Erin O'Dwyer

Keywords

Fertility, reproductive health, endocrine disruptors

Abstract

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are synthetic or naturally occurring chemicals that interfere with hormones, which are the key molecules of the endocrine system by mimicking or blocking their effects. These endocrine disruptors have been shown to pose significant health threats. One of the most concerning health consequences derived from ED exposure is its adverse effects on reproductive health and fertility in women. Reproductive organs of females are susceptible to fertility issues, hormone imbalance, menstrual cycle abnormalities, and other negative effects when exposed to endocrine disruptors. Worryingly, exposure to EDs greatly increased as the production and use of plastic and pesticides increased and they can be found in a large array of items of everyday use. These harmful chemicals are found in plastic tupperware and plastic wraps, foods with pesticides, cosmetic products, toys, carpets, flame retardants, and fatty meats. This issue is of great public health importance as it is estimated that around ten percent of women of childbearing age around the globe suffer from endometriosis, and infertility globally affects around eight to twelve percent of couples of reproductive age, with females leading in rates of infertility2,4. It is vital to understand the long-term effects of endocrine disruptors on fertility and overall reproductive health as exposure to ED continues to become engrained in everyday life. This project will focus on conceptual models that will highlight the process of ED exposure and how it affects reproductive health for different populations, along with contemplating what interventions might be impactful in different stages.

The Impact of Endocrine Disruptors on Fertility and Reproductive Health

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