Air Pollution affecting fertility

By Dr. Shobha Gupta 

Delhi’s air these days is a matter of concern for each and everybody. Air pollution has garnered considerable interest from past few weeks. From children to young adults to elderly people all have come under the deadliest and this poisonous trap of Air pollution. There are lot of heavy particles presented in the air such as carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, manganese dioxide, zinc oxide, nitrates etc. which directly affects our hormones and triggers fertility issues.  

Every time after Diwali air quality suffers badly. These days it is reported that after Diwali, air quality commenced with a recorded PM 2.5 as beyond scale value of 500 µg/m3 and increased to 600 and 700 µg/m3 in the later days, much higher than the Central Pollution Control Board norms of 250 µg/m3. This is such a worst ratio ever. 

Actually everyone is exposed to some air pollution, be it indoor or outdoor; it has an important effect across the population as a whole. These days’ chemical particles in the air are enough to make fertile and fetal developmental problems. Not only has this but air pollution also caused reduction in testosterone or oestrogen levels that may lead to

low desire for intercourse, thereby hindering the sex life.  Also, constant exposure to high air pollution increases the risk of miscarriage and early labor in pregnant women and also results in live or low birth weight and also including pre term delivery/pre mature baby. A premature baby is a baby who is born too soon, before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Some research shows that being exposed to certain air pollutants during pregnancy may affect your child’s intelligence later in life.  

It will be good if a pregnant woman limits her outdoor activity, stay inside and stay hydrated during an inversion. Wear a mask multi-layer filter masks while outdoors whenever you step out and start exercising when indoors. 

Stay fit stay healthy.