Safeguarding Reproductive Health: Navigating Environmental Exposures and Minimizing Risks
I recently went on a kayak and realized how fun they are, but what I did not realize it came with a warning for reproductive harm. The warning is placed under the “details” section of the listing and links to California’s Proposition 65 List, which lists the harmful chemicals to avoid. This realization parallels my recent rabbit hole of learning about environmental exposures and their corresponding reproductive harm.
What started my deep dive into environmental exposures was American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)’s podcast episode on Environmental Factors and Reproductive Medicine with Dr. Carmen Messerlian. From there, she recommended the resources and research coming out of Harvard’s SEED program, headed by Dr. Messerlian. The most notable resource on the site are the brochures for individuals at various stages of their lives and the changes they can make to reduce the risks caused by certain chemicals. I compiled those recommendations into a handout found below to help me keep track of the various items to avoid or replace.
The conversation continues on Rescripted’s podcast by Dr. Messerlian and her sister called, The Fertility Sisterhood: Cleaning Up Your Lifestyle For Future Generations, as well as The Guardian’s episode with Rachel Salvidge about PFAS, on their February 28th episode, What are “forever chemicals” and why are they causing alarm.
From these resources, it is clear that the particular chemicals to avoid are endocrine disrupting chemical (EDCs) which include Phenols, Phthalates, and PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances). Two well known phenols are Bisphenol A or BPA and triclosan.
These chemicals can detrimentally affect fertility, hormonal activity, and the growth of sperm and eggs. They also elevate the risk of endometriosis and negatively impact birth outcomes, leading to early delivery. The consequences of exposure extend beyond reproductive health, affecting metabolic function, immune system, neurodevelopment, and increasing cancer risks.
While awareness of these risks is important, the magnitude of information can feel overwhelming. However, Harvard's SEED program, along with other dedicated groups, is striving to release this information to the general population and promote changes that can minimize exposure and risk. Nonetheless, there are instances where complete avoidance of certain exposures is challenging or impossible. This underscores the necessity of government policies aimed at cleansing our environment, making a substantial impact on public health.
The journey of exploring environmental exposures and their impact on reproductive health has been eye-opening. Checklists can be a helpful way to visualize the potential changes that can be made, but to be honest, it might take a few years to be able to replace all the cookware and filter the water appropriately. Balancing health and its cost is difficult for me, but one way I try to see it is by improving my health now, I will reduce my costs later (and probably my quality of life as well). Small steps are better than no steps.
* This blog constitutes general information about genetic testing and medical screening. This blog does not offer or provide medical advice or diagnosis, and nothing in this blog should be construed as medical advice or diagnosis. Do not rely on the information in this blog/article to make medical management decisions. Please consult with a medical professional before making those decisions. Do not delay in seeking professional medical advice if you think you have a medical concern. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on any information received in this blog.
