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Understanding the environmental toxins and male infertility.

Toxic substances leave grave effects to the human reproductive system. It has been said that lead poisoning is the major contributing factor in reduced fertility rates and increased number of miscarriages as early as the second century. Furthermore, about 60,000 chemical substances are used by commerce and industry in Western countries nowadays, with 1,000 new substances being introduced each year. This is the environmental picture being blamed for the growing trend of infertility problems.

What are “reproductive hazards”?

Reproductive hazards are defined as agents, chemicals, substances, or factors which may have a negative impact upon the reproductive capacity of humans or which may impair fetal development and sometimes, death of an embryo or fetus.

Exposure to these reproductive hazards is inevitable. They are encountered in:

• The workplace – which are often in the form of industrial byproducts



• At home – in the form of household cleaners, paint, and even laundry detergent



• Via Personal factors – as in smoking habits, excessive alcohol intake, and unhealthy diet



• In the environment – as in the use of pesticides and exposure to smog



How do these toxins contribute to male infertility?

1. Exposure to chemicals induce problems in sperm production

Frequent exposure to chemical products put men to higher risks of developing problems in his sperm. Potentially harmful toxins include lead, cadmium, mercury, heavy metals such as aluminium, copper, selenium, varnish, solvents, adhesives, insulation materials, detergents, fertilizers, and pesticides. A healthy sperm count is essential if a couple is trying to conceive. Prolonged exposure to these substances reduces sperm count and increases abnormal sperm production. These chemicals can also cause damage to the seminiferous tubules in the reproductive system.

2. Radiation damages sperm.



Radiation can cause permanent damage to sperm and render a man infertile. It causes man’s sperm count to drop. Cells exposed to significant levels of radiation may take up to two years to resume normal sperm production, but, in severe circumstances, may never recover.

3. Smoking reduces sperm count.

Both first- and second-hand smoke have been shown to reduce sperm count in men, and also affect sperm morphology. Nicotine and tobacco impair the ability of sperm to bind to the outer layer of the egg, obstructing fertilization.

4. Excessive alcohol intake results in poor sperm motility



Heavy alcohol consumption has been linked with reduced sperm count and poor sperm motility.

5. Some toxins are considered to be endocrine disrupters.

These are substances which possess the ability to imitate other hormones in the body but can even cause the genes to mutate and change. When such toxins are absorbed by the body, they can imitate estrogen and interfere with the body’s natural hormones – causing imbalance in the overall body chemistry.


Until then, stay healthy.


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