How BPA Affects Your Fertility
Over the past 40 years, there has been growing concern about environmental chemicals, particularly Bisphenol A (BPA), and their impact on fertility.
BPA is one of many endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in everyday items like plastic containers and personal care products.
This blog will explore the connection between environmental chemicals like BPA and fertility and offer proactive strategies to minimise exposure and protect reproductive health.
How EDCs Disrupt Hormonal Balance and Affect Fertility
Scientific evidence conveys a compelling message: EDCs like BPA may reduce fertility, affecting both men and women.
For women, EDCs interfere with estrogen balance, leading to higher rates of unsuccessful fertilisation and implantation. For men, these hidden adversaries can disrupt vital sperm parameters, including count, quality, and motility.
The impact of EDCs on fertility can be particularly detrimental for those undergoing assisted reproductive treatments, making the journey to IVF success or natural conception even more challenging. Understanding the link between BPA and fertility is crucial for those seeking to protect their reproductive health.
BPA and Fertility: What Should You Avoid?
1. BPA-Containing Products
BPA is one of the most widely produced chemicals globally and is a common component in plastics and resins. You’ll find BPA in everyday products like plastic drink bottles, food containers, sales receipts, the linings of aluminium cans, and even dental fillings.
Unfortunately, BPA leaches from plastics into food and beverages, especially when exposed to heat. That plastic bottle left in a hot car or reheating meals in plastic containers can introduce this harmful chemical into your system.
2. The Link Between BPA and Infertility
Research has shown a clear connection between BPA and fertility issues. Elevated BPA level has been found in women struggling with infertility, with adverse effects on egg quality, blastocyst formation, and implantation success. Additionally, BPA increases the risk of miscarriage.
Men are also impacted by BPA exposure, as it can reduce sperm count, motility, and concentration, leading to challenges in conceiving.
3. Practical Ways to Reduce BPA Exposure
- Choose BPA-free plastic drink bottles and food containers.
- Avoid heating food in plastic containers or using plastic wrap.
- Opt for fresh produce over canned foods.
- Request electronic receipts instead of paper ones.
By making these simple adjustments, you can actively lower your exposure to BPA and protect your fertility. To learn more about including more fertility-enhancing foods in your diet, read our previous blog post here.
Bottom Line
BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) found in everyday items like plastic containers and food packaging, which has been linked to fertility challenges in both men and women.
To protect fertility, avoid heating food in plastic, choose BPA-free containers, opt for fresh foods over canned, and request electronic receipts instead of paper.
