In the current era where infertility and miscarriage rates are escalating annually, apart from the evident factors such as advancing age and physical differences, an "invisible chemical" lurking in our daily lives is silently causing trouble. This is perfluorinated compounds (PFAS).
From non-stick pans in the kitchen to waterproof foundation make-up on the vanity table, from takeout boxes to the milk tea cup in hand, this substance is almost everywhere. However, more than 90% of couples trying to conceive know very little about it. The relevant research data is alarming: the detection rate of this substance in follicular fluid from women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment is extremely high. Once it enters the human body, it is difficult to metabolize, posing a non-negligible threat to fertility.
Ubiquitous "additives" in life
Perfluorinated compounds (PFAS) are not a single substance, but a vast family encompassing over ten thousand types of man-made chemical pollutants, commonly including perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids and perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids. Since the 1950s, due to their excellent oil repellent, waterproof, heat-resistant, and anti-pollution properties, they have been widely used in industry and consumer goods.
For ordinary people, there are various ways to come into contact with PFAS. If the coating of a non-stick pan used in cooking is damaged, chemicals may be ingested with food; wearing waterproof jackets or stepping on stain-resistant carpets may result in skin contact or inhalation; commonly used waterproof eye black, long-lasting lipsticks, and even some contact lens care solutions and cleaning agents may contain it. Takeout packaging boxes and greaseproof paper are also prone to chemical migration under high temperatures.
One of the major characteristics of PFAS is its extremely stable chemical structure. Chen Yiyu, the founder and president of Tulip International Center, pointed out: "After entering the human body, PFAS tends to bind with serum proteins and liver fatty acid binding proteins, and accumulates in body fluids, liver, reproductive organs, and other tissues for a long time. Due to its long half-life, the human body's own metabolic system finds it difficult to rapidly eliminate it. This accumulation effect is long-term and concealed. ”
Dual hidden dangers to reproductive health
Multiple domestic and international studies have shown that PFAS exhibit endocrine-disrupting properties and can disrupt the hormonal balance in the human body. Both men and women may face severe challenges to their reproductive health when exposed to high concentrations of PFAS over a long period of time.
Chen Yiyu, the founder and president of Tulip International Center, analyzed based on years of clinical experience: "In the clinical cases of Tulip International Fertility Center, we have noticed that the impact of environmental factors on assisted reproductive outcomes is becoming increasingly evident. Environmental endocrine disruptors such as PFAS can simulate or antagonize natural hormones in the human body, thereby interfering with the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. For women, this may not only lead to menstrual cycle disorders and ovulation disorders, but also directly affect the quality of oocytes. In in vitro fertilization cycles, if such substances are enriched in follicular fluid, they may interfere with the maturation process of eggs, thereby affecting the implantation rate of embryos and subsequent pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, when formulating fertility treatment plans for patients, we are paying increasing attention to the assessment of their living environment and metabolic levels."
Scientific research also supports this point:
Regarding women: Research published in "Total Environmental Science" tracked hundreds of women who were preparing for pregnancy and found that the higher the concentration of PFAS in plasma, the lower the probability of pregnancy. Data indicates that the fertility rate of individuals with high exposure may be significantly affected. Additionally, PFAS may increase the risk of thyroid disease, obesity, and other metabolic issues, indirectly undermining the basic physical condition for pregnancy preparation.
In males: PFAS also exist in the male reproductive system, which may lead to decreased levels of androgens and abnormally elevated levels of estrogens, thereby affecting sperm vitality and morphology. Some studies even suggest that this damage may affect the health of offspring through epigenetic mechanisms.
How to scientifically deal with environmental toxins?
Although PFAS are difficult to completely avoid, we can effectively reduce their impact on fertility through scientific lifestyle adjustments.
1. Reduce at the source to minimize exposure
In daily life, people who are preparing for pregnancy should consciously reduce the use of high-risk items.
Kitchenware selection: It is recommended to prioritize the use of iron, ceramic, or stainless steel pots, reducing reliance on coated non-stick pans.
Diet packaging: Try to reduce the frequency of consuming takeout and fast food, avoid prolonged contact of food with greaseproof paper or plastic packaging, and use glass or ceramic containers when heating food.
Household goods: When purchasing skincare products and clothing, pay attention to the ingredient labels and try to choose products with simple and natural ingredients.
Drinking water safety: Considering the potential residuals of PFAS in water bodies, households can install water purification equipment with relevant filtering functions.
2. Strengthen metabolism and enhance body defense
The expert team at Tulip International Fertility Center recommends improving lifestyle habits to aid in body detoxification.
Protecting liver and intestinal functions: The liver and intestines are important metabolic organs in the human body. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding staying up late and excessive alcohol consumption, and increasing intake of fruits and vegetables rich in dietary fiber can help maintain intestinal smoothness and reduce the burden on the liver.
Nutritional support: Proper supplementation with nutrients such as vitamin B complex and high-quality protein can help support the metabolic function of the liver.
Moderate exercise: Maintain 3-5 sessions of aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, etc., to promote blood circulation and metabolism, and accelerate the excretion of waste from the body.
For families who have been trying to conceive for a long time without success or who experience unexplained embryo quality issues, in addition to routine examinations, focusing on the impact of environmental toxins is also a new direction for investigation. At Tulip International Fertility Center, we are committed to helping every family overcome obstacles and welcome the arrival of a new life through comprehensive health management and scientific fertility assistance techniques.
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