Air pollution puts men and women at higher risk of infertility

New Delhi: Delhi is reeling under extreme levels of pollution currently. The air quality index has reached an all-time high of 451, which is way beyond the acceptable limits.

Such high levels of pollutants can precipitate oxidative stress. The creation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause damage to cellular organs, damage DNA, and damage the cell wall, all of which can lead to decreased egg and sperm quality.

While it is not possible to point to one single pollutant, the combination of particulate matter, heavy metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons seem to be the cause behind reduced fertility.

Speaking about this, Dr Hrishikesh D Pai, Director IVF & Infertility at Fortis La Femme Hospital, Delhi & Secretary General of the Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Societies of India said, "Air pollutants cause defects during gametogenesis leading to a drop in reproductive capacities in exposed populations (both human and animals). Exposure to ambient levels of air pollutants are associated with low birth weight, intrauterine growth retardation, prematurity, neonatal death, and decreased fertility in males. Substances such as PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) can alter the hormonesystem. The results of a study also indicate that those who breathe in pollutants over time have a higher concentration of free radicals in the blood. This can cause a lower sperm quality even in infertile men."

Adding to this, Dr Nandita Palshetkar, Director, IVF and Infertility at Fortis Bloom IVF Center at La Femme GK 2 and Fortis Hospital Gurgaon & President-elect of the Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Societies of India said, "Infertility among both men and women is rising steadily. Apart from factors such as lifestyle, late pregnancies, and weight issues, pollution is also emerging as a major cause for concern. Living in cities further exacerbates this risk. Pollutants and the harmful compounds therein can block the effect of estrogen or stimulate the effect of estrogen, and block the effect of androgen hormones in the body, overall leading to a disruption in reproductive hormonal balance and function. Pollution can also alter the expression of certain genes."

According to a recent research, living within 200 meters of the main road can increase the risk of infertility by 11%. High levels of air pollution and traffic fumes in the cities can cause fertility issues in women.

This risk is true even when the levels of particulate matter are relatively low. However, the risk increases with pollution levels. Although the human body has its own defence mechanism, external threats such as pollution can still influence reproductive health through inhalation, ocular and dermal contact, ingestion, and vertical and horizontal transfer - all of which can have negative effects on fertility.

Some tips to prevent infertility due to chemical exposure are as follows.

- Be aware of the pollution levels so that you can take appropriate and timely precautions.

- Install an air purifier at home and also some indoor plants that can help reduce the harmful effects of pollution.

- Try using natural household cleaners instead of those laden with chemicals.

- If you must venture out, cover your face with a mask appropriately to avoid inhaling the harmful pollutants.

- Consume a healthy diet that can help flush out toxins from the body. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.