Fertility woes — the hidden cost of rising air pollution

Rising air pollution is emerging as a hidden factor contributing to fertility challenges worldwide. Studies have increasingly linked poor air quality to a decline in reproductive health for both men and women, with fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, and other pollutants playing a role in hormonal disruptions, reduced sperm quality, and complications in ovulation. 

For men, air pollution has been associated with lower sperm count, reduced motility, and DNA damage in sperm cells. Researchers attribute these effects to oxidative stress caused by pollutants, which can impair the functioning of reproductive organs. Similarly, women exposed to high levels of air pollution face increased risks of irregular menstrual cycles, decreased ovarian reserve, and complications in early pregnancy. 

These effects are not limited to direct exposure; long-term environmental pollution has been found to alter gene expressions related to reproduction, potentially affecting future generations. Urban areas, where air quality is often the poorest, show the highest rates of infertility issues, highlighting the intersection of environmental health and reproductive well-being. 

As air pollution continues to rise globally, its impact on fertility presents a pressing public health concern. Addressing this challenge will require policy interventions to improve air quality, alongside greater awareness of environmental factors in fertility care.