Air pollution has garnered considerable interest in last few years because of the multiple adverse effects reported on human health. Last, year also after diwali a layer of smog has covered many parts of the country and this year too deapite the ban on crackers in the capital a layer of smog has covered all the parts of the city. The injurious effects of air pollution are widespread and are many. Every day commuting to work or travelling around our town or city, we’re being exposed to high levels of toxins. Air pollution is a global environmental burden, and has been identified as a significant public health risk. It is very dangerous to our health although its impact on fertility remains unclear.
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. Actually the chemical particles in the air are enough to make people infertile. We have recently seen at least 15 to 20 patients especially men and after complete examination we came to know that due to air pollution there is a reduction in their testosterone or oestrogen levels that leads to low desire for intercourse, thereby hindering their sex life and further
causing infertility issues. Couples suffering from infertility need to exercise caution especially if they are residing in areas with high ambient particulate matter. Relocating to areas with low contamination of particulate matter is an alternative to prevent adverse impact on fertility.
Air pollution creates problem among pregnant women too:
Constant exposure to high air pollution increases the risk of miscarriage and starting of pre term labor in pregnant women which further results in low birth weight. Actually fetal development is very sensitive to environmental factors; particularly high blood pressure which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality causing a lot of problems for mother and the unborn child including pre term delivery. It will be good if a pregnant woman limits her outdoor activity, stay inside mostly. Also, please avoid walks particularly in the morning and evening hours; people should also avoid physical activities like cycling or jogging as it leads to inhalation of greater volumes of minute pollutants.