A recent study has uncovered a connection between preconception exposure to phthalates and adverse impacts on women’s reproductive health. Shedding light on how phthalates diminish the likelihood of conception, interfere with crucial reproductive hormones, and induce inflammation and oxidative stress, the study contributes to a growing body of evidence outlining the negative consequences of these chemicals.
Phthalates are synthetic chemicals widely employed as solvents, plasticizers, and stabilizers in various personal care products like soap, body lotion, perfume, nail polish, shampoo, hair gel, and hairspray. Additionally, they are present in household items such as vinyl flooring, plastic packaging, garden hoses, and toys.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exposure to phthalates occurs through the consumption of foods and beverages that have come into contact with these chemicals, with additional exposure through inhaling airborne particles. Studies indicate that exposure to certain phthalates disrupts the endocrine system, heightens inflammation, and increases oxidative stress.
A research team at the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Amherst conducted a study exploring the correlation between preconception phthalate exposure and a woman’s chances of conceiving and sustaining a pregnancy. The study also delved into the impact of these chemicals on inflammation and oxidative stress.
“Phthalates are ubiquitous endocrine disruptors, and we’re exposed to them every day,” noted Carrie Nobles, the lead author of the study.
The researchers examined data collected as part of the EAGeR (Effects of Aspirin in Gestation and Reproduction) study, tracking 1,288 women attempting to conceive during six menstrual cycles and monitoring those who became pregnant throughout their gestation. The mean age of participants was 28, with data adjusted for various factors, including age, BMI, race/ethnicity, cigarette smoking, and parity.
The findings revealed that preconception urinary concentrations of certain phthalate metabolites were linked to reduced odds of conceiving within one menstrual cycle (fecundability). Notably, metabolites of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), and benzylbutyl phthalate (BzBP) were particularly associated with longer conception times. DEHP is present in PVC plastic products, while DBP is found in hairspray, nail polish, and perfumes, and BzBP is used in handbags, belts, and footwear.
The study also highlighted that higher levels of certain phthalate metabolites were associated with lower estradiol across the menstrual cycle, alongside consistently elevated levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormonal changes are significant as estradiol regulates the menstrual cycle, and FSH and LH collaborate to regulate ovulation. The identified hormonal profile is comparable to that seen in women with ovarian insufficiency, impacting the ovulation process.
Additionally, women with heightened phthalate exposure demonstrated increased levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can contribute to cell and DNA damage, potentially leading to diseases. Despite efforts to minimize exposure, the widespread presence of phthalates in daily life poses challenges for women attempting to control their exposure effectively.
The researchers emphasized that women may encounter parent compounds of these metabolites through various sources, including household dust, personal care products, dietary sources, and contaminated drinking water. The study underscores the complex and pervasive nature of phthalate exposure and its potential repercussions on women’s reproductive health.
