Microplastics are small plastic particles formed after the degradation of plastics and have negative consequences for the environment and human health. Till now there was a growing concern about the chances of microplastics entering the food chain and having health impacts on humans.
Now, for the first time, microplastics have been found in human ovary follicular fluid, raising new questions about the potential impact of the toxic substance on women&rsquo;s fertility. A new peer-reviewed research, published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, detected microplastics in the follicular fluid of 14 out of 18 women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment at a fertility clinic in Salerno, Italy. Follicular fluid provides essential nutrients and biochemical signals for the developing eggs. Contamination with microplastics has implications for fertility, hormonal balance, and overall reproductive health, the authors wrote.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/throw-my-ashes-in-drain-techie-accuses-wife-in-laws-of-harassment-dies-by-suicide-in-up-8982951">&lsquo;Throw my ashes in drain&rsquo;: Techie accuses wife, in-laws of harassment, dies by suicide in UP</a>
The findings are a major step toward finding out how microplastics impact the reproductive health of women, but are also &ldquo;very alarming&rdquo;, said Luigi Montano, a researcher at the University of Rome and study lead author.
&ldquo;This discovery is an important warning signal about the invasiveness of these emerging contaminants,&rdquo; the study says. Microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics have been traced from the top of Mt. Everest to the bottom of the Mariana Trench, and were also found in food. They are particularly dangerous because they can contain highly toxic compounds like Pfas, bisphenol and phthalates, which are linked to cancer, neurotoxicity, hormone disruption, and developmental toxicity. Microplastics have been found in the human body and can cross the brain and placental barriers. Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-minister-in-pakistan-attacked-during-protest-in-sindh-pm-shehbaz-sharif-vows-action-8982695" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hindu minister in Pakistan attacked during protest in Sindh; govt vows probe, action</a> Montano has also detected microplastics in human urine and semen and suspects that microplastics are among the chemicals responsible for poor sperm count and a drop in overall sperm quality. Men are more susceptible to the toxic effects, but women are also possibly impacted by things like ovarian dysfunction, reduced oocyte maturation, and a lower capacity for fertilisation, he added.&nbsp; Montano added that the bisphenol, phthalates, Pfas and other highly toxic chemicals that use microplastics as a &ldquo;Trojan horse&rdquo; to get into the body and into the ovaries, are &ldquo;very dangerous&rdquo;. They are already known for disrupting hormones and harming women&rsquo;s reproductive health.
However, more work is needed to determine the dose and level of exposure at which adverse effects start to happen. Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-greets-crowds-delegates-easter-mass-service-to-high-ranking-cardinal-8982447" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Pope Francis greets crowds, delegates Easter Mass service to high-ranking cardinal</a> Montano is also spearheading research that is trying to determine how much reduction of plastic use in the kitchen and eating organic diet will reduce the level of microplastics in the body. Microplastics are difficult to avoid, but reducing the amount of plastic used in the kitchen&mdash;from packaging to storage to utensils&mdash;will reduce exposures.&nbsp; Experts also advise that people should avoid heating plastic or putting hot food and liquid in plastic. Single-use paper coffee cups shed trillions of bits of plastic when hot liquid is poured in them. Similarly, tea bags release billions of particles. Researchers suggest shunning the use of plastic utensils and instead using wood and stainless steel alternatives, as they are less harmful.
&nbsp;

Trending | Science & Technology: Men are more susceptible to the toxic effects, but women are also possibly impacted by things like ovarian dysfunction, reduced oocyte maturation, and a lower capacity for fertilisation.

Microplastics are small plastic particles formed after the degradation of plastics and have negative consequences for the environment and human health. Till now there was a growing concern about the chances of microplastics entering the food chain and having health impacts on humans. Now, for the first time, microplastics have been found in human ovary follicular fluid, raising new questions about the potential impact of the toxic substance on women’s fertility. A new peer-reviewed research, published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, detected microplastics in the follicular fluid of 14 out of 18 women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment at a fertility clinic in Salerno, Italy. Follicular fluid provides essential nutrients and biochemical signals for the developing eggs. Contamination with microplastics has implications for fertility, hormonal balance, and overall reproductive health, the authors wrote. Also Read | ‘Throw my ashes in drain’: Techie accuses wife, in-laws of harassment, dies by suicide in UP The findings are a major step toward finding out how microplastics impact the reproductive health of women, but are also “very alarming”, said Luigi Montano, a researcher at the University of Rome and study lead author. “This discovery is an important warning signal about the invasiveness of these emerging contaminants,” the study says. Microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics have been traced from the top of Mt. Everest to the bottom of the Mariana Trench, and were also found in food. They are particularly dangerous because they can contain highly toxic compounds like Pfas, bisphenol and phthalates, which are linked to cancer, neurotoxicity, hormone disruption, and developmental toxicity. Microplastics have been found in the human body and can cross the brain and placental barriers. Also Read | Hindu minister in Pakistan attacked during protest in Sindh; govt vows probe, action Montano has also detected microplastics in human urine and semen and suspects that microplastics are among the chemicals responsible for poor sperm count and a drop in overall sperm quality. Men are more susceptible to the toxic effects, but women are also possibly impacted by things like ovarian dysfunction, reduced oocyte maturation, and a lower capacity for fertilisation, he added. Montano added that the bisphenol, phthalates, Pfas and other highly toxic chemicals that use microplastics as a “Trojan horse” to get into the body and into the ovaries, are “very dangerous”. They are already known for disrupting hormones and harming women’s reproductive health. However, more work is needed to determine the dose and level of exposure at which adverse effects start to happen. Also Read | Pope Francis greets crowds, delegates Easter Mass service to high-ranking cardinal Montano is also spearheading research that is trying to determine how much reduction of plastic use in the kitchen and eating organic diet will reduce the level of microplastics in the body. Microplastics are difficult to avoid, but reducing the amount of plastic used in the kitchen—from packaging to storage to utensils—will reduce exposures. Experts also advise that people should avoid heating plastic or putting hot food and liquid in plastic. Single-use paper coffee cups shed trillions of bits of plastic when hot liquid is poured in them. Similarly, tea bags release billions of particles. Researchers suggest shunning the use of plastic utensils and instead using wood and stainless steel alternatives, as they are less harmful.

‘Very alarming,’ say researchers on detecting microplastics in human ovary follicular fluid

You can get pregnant by having a cough medicine, claim some women in TikTok. Like many other health hacks and 'home remedies', this has been going viral on the video-sharing platform, but medical experts are throwing in some reality checks now.

The medicine doing the rounds as a fertility treatment is Mucinex, or more specifically, the ingredient guaifenesin, which clears mucus and phlegm from the chest.

The 'Mucinex Method' claims have been doing the rounds for months now, with millions of views and even a hashtag #mucinexdpregnancy on TikTok.

In one such TikTok video, a woman said she took the medicine 30 minutes before sexual intercourse and it worked. Any kind of Mucinex or medicine with guaifenesin will work, claimed Amanda MacGibbon, a lifestyle influencer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-key-part-of-womens-brains-is-shrinking-by-80-during-pregnancy-creating-permanent-etchings-study-759326">Also read:&nbsp; A key part of women's brains is shrinking by 80% during pregnancy, creating 'permanent etchings': Study</a>

Now, writing in The Conversation, two medical experts have sought to dispel the unusual medical properties being attributed to Mucinex, which is manufactured by Reckitt.

Adam Watkins from the University of Nottingham and Emma Lucas from the University of Sheffield say that there's little scientific evidence to back the claim that Mucinex is good for fertility.

Watch: Metabolic changes mapped by scientists to regulate pregnancy health

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The most cited study is also outdated. Published in the journal Fertility and Sterility, the&nbsp;1982 study involved 40 couples, pointed out the experts.

The female subjects of the study took 200mg of guaifenesin three times per day from the fifth day of their menstruation onwards.

Eventually, 15 out of 40 couples had babies. But there's a catch. This group of couples were not compared with a set of subjects who did not take guaifenesin, meaning there was no control group to countercheck the results.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/pregnancy-can-make-you-age-faster-says-new-study-709459">Also read: Pregnancy takes a toll on the biological age of women: Study</a> 
 
There was also a study on a 32-year-old man who saw a dramatic increase in sperm production and motility after taking 600mg of guaifenesin twice a day for two months. However, a single individual cannot be taken as a case study for a medical breakthrough, noted the experts.&nbsp;

Reckitt, the pharma giant, had said that Mucinex should be used only "in line with label directions" as intended, which means taking it as a fertility treatment amounts to off-label use.

<h2>So, how to get pregnant?</h2>

Approved fertility medication and treatment, as well as changes in diet and lifestyle are crucial for becoming pregnant, noted the experts. 
 
They suggested avoiding smoking, limiting the use of alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight and lowering stress as other ways to help achieve the desired result.

Consulting your physician is the simplest and best way, they concluded.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can get pregnant by having a cough medicine, claim some women in TikTok. Like many other health hacks and 'home remedies', this has been going viral on the video-sharing platform, but medical experts are throwing in some reality checks now.

You can get pregnant by having a cough medicine, claim some women in TikTok. Like many other health hacks and 'home remedies', this has been going viral on the video-sharing platform, but medical experts are throwing in some reality checks now. The medicine doing the rounds as a fertility treatment is Mucinex, or more specifically, the ingredient guaifenesin, which clears mucus and phlegm from the chest. The 'Mucinex Method' claims have been doing the rounds for months now, with millions of views and even a hashtag #mucinexdpregnancy on TikTok. In one such TikTok video, a woman said she took the medicine 30 minutes before sexual intercourse and it worked. Any kind of Mucinex or medicine with guaifenesin will work, claimed Amanda MacGibbon, a lifestyle influencer. Also read: A key part of women's brains is shrinking by 80% during pregnancy, creating 'permanent etchings': Study Now, writing in The Conversation, two medical experts have sought to dispel the unusual medical properties being attributed to Mucinex, which is manufactured by Reckitt. Adam Watkins from the University of Nottingham and Emma Lucas from the University of Sheffield say that there's little scientific evidence to back the claim that Mucinex is good for fertility. Watch: Metabolic changes mapped by scientists to regulate pregnancy health × The most cited study is also outdated. Published in the journal Fertility and Sterility, the 1982 study involved 40 couples, pointed out the experts. The female subjects of the study took 200mg of guaifenesin three times per day from the fifth day of their menstruation onwards. Eventually, 15 out of 40 couples had babies. But there's a catch. This group of couples were not compared with a set of subjects who did not take guaifenesin, meaning there was no control group to countercheck the results. Also read: Pregnancy takes a toll on the biological age of women: Study There was also a study on a 32-year-old man who saw a dramatic increase in sperm production and motility after taking 600mg of guaifenesin twice a day for two months. However, a single individual cannot be taken as a case study for a medical breakthrough, noted the experts. Reckitt, the pharma giant, had said that Mucinex should be used only "in line with label directions" as intended, which means taking it as a fertility treatment amounts to off-label use. So, how to get pregnant? Approved fertility medication and treatment, as well as changes in diet and lifestyle are crucial for becoming pregnant, noted the experts. They suggested avoiding smoking, limiting the use of alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight and lowering stress as other ways to help achieve the desired result. Consulting your physician is the simplest and best way, they concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

Cough medicine can help women get pregnant, say some on TikTok. Experts say...

Republicans in the US Senate on Thursday (June 13) blocked a bill that aimed to recognise a legal right to in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The bill, as per AFP, was part of a Democratic drive to highlight the threats faced by reproductive freedoms as the November elections approach.

The proposed legislation sought to establish a federal right to IVF and allow providers to offer the procedure, along with expanded insurance coverage, to reduce costs.&nbsp;

<h2>The blocked bill</h2>

The bill required the support of 60 senators to proceed to debate, but only secured backing from 48, with just two Republicans joining Democrats.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-notorious-dog-has-been-biting-secret-service-members-threatening-their-security-report-731653">Biden's pet German Shepherd kept attacking security personnel right in front of him: Report</a>

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasised the personal significance of IVF, noting its role in the birth of his grandson.

"All this bill does is establish a nationwide right to IVF and eliminate barriers for millions of Americans who seek IVF to have kids," he said.

"It's personal to me. I have a beautiful one-year-old grandson because of the miracle of IVF."

Republicans criticised the bill as excessive and accused Democrats of using it to "show vote" and create alarm about IVF access.&nbsp;

Texas Senator Ted Cruz asserted that no senators were attempting to ban IVF. "Let's be clear: No one is trying to ban IVF. Not one senator," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cold-case-investigation-leads-to-arrest-in-1982-northamptonshire-baby-murder-731677">Cold case investigation leads to arrest in 1982 Northamptonshire baby murder</a>

<h2>America and IVF</h2>

In America, 82 per cent of Americans find IVF morally acceptable — as reflected by a recent Gallup poll.

However, the destruction of frozen human embryos remains a contentious issue.

IVF became a focal point after the Alabama Supreme Court's February ruling that classified frozen embryos as children, making their destruction a potential liability.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Republicans in the US Senate on Thursday (June 13) blocked a bill that aimed to recognise a legal right to in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The bill, as per AFP, was part of a Democratic drive to highlight the threats faced by reproductive freedoms as the November elections approach.

Republicans in the US Senate on Thursday (June 13) blocked a bill that aimed to recognise a legal right to in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The bill, as per AFP, was part of a Democratic drive to highlight the threats faced by reproductive freedoms as the November elections approach. The proposed legislation sought to establish a federal right to IVF and allow providers to offer the procedure, along with expanded insurance coverage, to reduce costs. The blocked bill The bill required the support of 60 senators to proceed to debate, but only secured backing from 48, with just two Republicans joining Democrats. Also read | Biden's pet German Shepherd kept attacking security personnel right in front of him: Report Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasised the personal significance of IVF, noting its role in the birth of his grandson. "All this bill does is establish a nationwide right to IVF and eliminate barriers for millions of Americans who seek IVF to have kids," he said. "It's personal to me. I have a beautiful one-year-old grandson because of the miracle of IVF." Republicans criticised the bill as excessive and accused Democrats of using it to "show vote" and create alarm about IVF access. Texas Senator Ted Cruz asserted that no senators were attempting to ban IVF. "Let's be clear: No one is trying to ban IVF. Not one senator," he said. Also read | Cold case investigation leads to arrest in 1982 Northamptonshire baby murder America and IVF In America, 82 per cent of Americans find IVF morally acceptable — as reflected by a recent Gallup poll. However, the destruction of frozen human embryos remains a contentious issue. IVF became a focal point after the Alabama Supreme Court's February ruling that classified frozen embryos as children, making their destruction a potential liability. (With inputs from agencies)

Republicans block Democrat bill for IVF rights ahead of November elections

Researchers in the United Kingdom have initiated the first-ever clinical trial for a non-hormonal male birth control pill, marking a significant step toward achieving equitable responsibility for contraception between genders.

Quotient Sciences, a Nottingham-based drug development company, has commenced the phase I trial for its groundbreaking male contraceptive, YCT-529, involving 16 British men.

Diverging from traditional hormonal methods, YCT-529 operates without hormones and inhibits sperm production by blocking access to vitamin A. Historical studies spanning over 90 years have revealed that depriving mice, rats, and monkeys of vitamin A can induce infertility, forming the basis for this pioneering approach.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-lab-grown-human-embryos-ethical-conundrums-and-emerging-frontiers-606451">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | Lab-grown human embryos: Ethical conundrums and emerging frontiers</a>

<h2>Shifting the burden of responsibility</h2>

The goal of this novel pill is to empower men in preventing unintended pregnancies, challenging the historical burden placed solely on women for contraception.

Currently, male contraceptive options are limited to withdrawal, condoms, and vasectomy, while women have a broader array of choices such as the pill, coil, contraceptive injection, and female condoms or diaphragms.

Pre-clinical studies conducted by YourChoice Therapeutics, the San Francisco-based manufacturer of YCT-529, report impressive effectiveness. The pill is claimed to be 99 per cent effective and 100 per cent&nbsp;reversible, with no discernible side effects. The method involves blocking a specific protein, diverging from the conventional hormonal approach, with the aim of making contraception more appealing and shared between partners.

Also watch |&nbsp;Do not use these methods for avoiding pregnancy

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Gunda Georg, regents professor at the University of Minnesota's College of Pharmacy and the developer of YCT-529, who spoke to Forbes, stressed on&nbsp;the significance of introducing a male contraceptive after more than 60 years since the innovation of the female birth control pill. The hormone-free approach aligns with ethical considerations, addressing the side effects women have endured from hormonal contraception over decades.

The clinical trial for YCT-529 is expected to conclude in June 2024, according to Forbes. This groundbreaking endeavor holds promise for reshaping societal norms surrounding contraceptive responsibilities and providing couples with a broader range of choices for family planning.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers in the United Kingdom have initiated the first-ever clinical trial for a non-hormonal male birth control pill, marking a significant step toward achieving equitable responsibility for contraception between genders.

Researchers in the United Kingdom have initiated the first-ever clinical trial for a non-hormonal male birth control pill, marking a significant step toward achieving equitable responsibility for contraception between genders. Quotient Sciences, a Nottingham-based drug development company, has commenced the phase I trial for its groundbreaking male contraceptive, YCT-529, involving 16 British men. Diverging from traditional hormonal methods, YCT-529 operates without hormones and inhibits sperm production by blocking access to vitamin A. Historical studies spanning over 90 years have revealed that depriving mice, rats, and monkeys of vitamin A can induce infertility, forming the basis for this pioneering approach. Also read | Explained | Lab-grown human embryos: Ethical conundrums and emerging frontiers Shifting the burden of responsibility The goal of this novel pill is to empower men in preventing unintended pregnancies, challenging the historical burden placed solely on women for contraception. Currently, male contraceptive options are limited to withdrawal, condoms, and vasectomy, while women have a broader array of choices such as the pill, coil, contraceptive injection, and female condoms or diaphragms. Pre-clinical studies conducted by YourChoice Therapeutics, the San Francisco-based manufacturer of YCT-529, report impressive effectiveness. The pill is claimed to be 99 per cent effective and 100 per cent reversible, with no discernible side effects. The method involves blocking a specific protein, diverging from the conventional hormonal approach, with the aim of making contraception more appealing and shared between partners. Also watch | Do not use these methods for avoiding pregnancy Gunda Georg, regents professor at the University of Minnesota's College of Pharmacy and the developer of YCT-529, who spoke to Forbes, stressed on the significance of introducing a male contraceptive after more than 60 years since the innovation of the female birth control pill. The hormone-free approach aligns with ethical considerations, addressing the side effects women have endured from hormonal contraception over decades. The clinical trial for YCT-529 is expected to conclude in June 2024, according to Forbes. This groundbreaking endeavor holds promise for reshaping societal norms surrounding contraceptive responsibilities and providing couples with a broader range of choices for family planning. (With inputs from agencies)

UK begins testing of hormone-free male birth control pill with 16 participants

In recent times, a concerning surge in reproductive health issues is evident among young women who smoke. A spectrum of concerns is affecting both teenagers and young professionals, typically between the ages of 20 and 40. The act of smoking has been intricately linked to an array of potential reproductive health challenges, casting a shadow on the well-being of women and their future offspring.

Here are some potential reproductive health issues smokers may face:

Menstrual Irregularities: Smoking has been correlated with disruptions in the menstrual cycle, particularly among those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Fertility Challenges: Smoking is connected to heightened difficulties in conception. Nicotine and other harmful substances in cigarettes can negatively impact the ovaries and disrupt hormonal balance, making conception more challenging.

High-Risk Pregnancy &amp; Complications: Pregnant women who smoke face an elevated risk of complications, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues. Exposure to second-hand smoke is also linked to adverse outcomes for both the mother and the developing foetus.

Increased Risk of Miscarriage: Women smokers have a higher likelihood of experiencing miscarriages compared to non-smokers. The toxic components of cigarettes may compromise the viability of a developing pregnancy.

Potential risk of Cervical Cancer: One of the third most common cancers in women worldwide, Cervical Cancer is a preventable disease. Smoking not only worsens the persistence of HPV, a well-known precursor to cervical cancer, but it also places an additional burden on the already complex landscape of women's health.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-world-aids-day-myths--facts-about-acquired-immune-deficiency-syndrome-664981">World AIDS Day: Myths &amp; facts about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome</a>

Young women who smoke may unknowingly expose themselves to these risks, jeopardising their reproductive health and the health of potential future generations.

"We have been noticing a significant uptick in reproductive health issues among young women who smoke, and it is crucial that we take proactive steps to address this trend. Approximately over 10 per cent of women presenting with various reproductive disorders are constant smokers. Many women adopt smoking and alcohol consumption as 'stress busters.' Smoking among young women not only threatens their health but also poses specific and alarming risks to their overall well-being," says Dr Prathima Reddy, Director &amp; Lead Consultant-Obstetrics and Gynaecology at SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore.

"It is crucial that we prioritise education, intervention, and support to mitigate these risks. We need to empower young women with knowledge about the potential risks they face and encourage them to make healthier lifestyle choices," adds Dr Prathima.

Dr Samta Singhania, Infertility specialist, Obs &amp; Gyne, Apollo Clinic, Pune, says, “Smoking can accelerate the loss of eggs, which can reduce fertility. Women are born with a set number of eggs that decrease over time, and smoking can speed up this decline. Smoking can harm the fallopian tubes, where fertilisation typically occurs.

"This damage can interfere with the egg's journey from the ovary to the uterus, making conception difficult. Smoking can disrupt hormone levels essential for conception and pregnancy. It can affect estrogen production, which is crucial for the menstrual cycle and maintaining a healthy reproductive system. Smoking increases the risk of miscarriage. Smoking can reduce a woman's ovarian reserve, which refers to the number and quality of eggs available for fertilisation. Women who smoke may reach menopause earlier than non-smokers.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

In recent times, a concerning surge in reproductive health issues is evident among young women who smoke. A spectrum of concerns is affecting both teenagers and young professionals, typically between the ages of 20 and 40.

In recent times, a concerning surge in reproductive health issues is evident among young women who smoke. A spectrum of concerns is affecting both teenagers and young professionals, typically between the ages of 20 and 40. The act of smoking has been intricately linked to an array of potential reproductive health challenges, casting a shadow on the well-being of women and their future offspring. Here are some potential reproductive health issues smokers may face: Menstrual Irregularities: Smoking has been correlated with disruptions in the menstrual cycle, particularly among those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Fertility Challenges: Smoking is connected to heightened difficulties in conception. Nicotine and other harmful substances in cigarettes can negatively impact the ovaries and disrupt hormonal balance, making conception more challenging. High-Risk Pregnancy & Complications: Pregnant women who smoke face an elevated risk of complications, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues. Exposure to second-hand smoke is also linked to adverse outcomes for both the mother and the developing foetus. Increased Risk of Miscarriage: Women smokers have a higher likelihood of experiencing miscarriages compared to non-smokers. The toxic components of cigarettes may compromise the viability of a developing pregnancy. Potential risk of Cervical Cancer: One of the third most common cancers in women worldwide, Cervical Cancer is a preventable disease. Smoking not only worsens the persistence of HPV, a well-known precursor to cervical cancer, but it also places an additional burden on the already complex landscape of women's health. Also read: World AIDS Day: Myths & facts about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Young women who smoke may unknowingly expose themselves to these risks, jeopardising their reproductive health and the health of potential future generations. "We have been noticing a significant uptick in reproductive health issues among young women who smoke, and it is crucial that we take proactive steps to address this trend. Approximately over 10 per cent of women presenting with various reproductive disorders are constant smokers. Many women adopt smoking and alcohol consumption as 'stress busters.' Smoking among young women not only threatens their health but also poses specific and alarming risks to their overall well-being," says Dr Prathima Reddy, Director & Lead Consultant-Obstetrics and Gynaecology at SPARSH Hospital, Bangalore. "It is crucial that we prioritise education, intervention, and support to mitigate these risks. We need to empower young women with knowledge about the potential risks they face and encourage them to make healthier lifestyle choices," adds Dr Prathima. Dr Samta Singhania, Infertility specialist, Obs & Gyne, Apollo Clinic, Pune, says, “Smoking can accelerate the loss of eggs, which can reduce fertility. Women are born with a set number of eggs that decrease over time, and smoking can speed up this decline. Smoking can harm the fallopian tubes, where fertilisation typically occurs. "This damage can interfere with the egg's journey from the ovary to the uterus, making conception difficult. Smoking can disrupt hormone levels essential for conception and pregnancy. It can affect estrogen production, which is crucial for the menstrual cycle and maintaining a healthy reproductive system. Smoking increases the risk of miscarriage. Smoking can reduce a woman's ovarian reserve, which refers to the number and quality of eggs available for fertilisation. Women who smoke may reach menopause earlier than non-smokers.”

There's an alarming link between smoking and reproductive health among young women

Dealing with fertility challenges can be emotionally and financially taxing. It can be both an overwhelming and&nbsp;an isolating experience. And, a recent World Health Organization report has revealed that infertility is more common than one realises and is a matter of great concern worldwide, with 1 out of every 6 couples experiencing fertility issues.

However, with timely intervention&nbsp;and lifestyle modifications, couples can fulfil their dreams and experience the joy of parenthood. Simple yet cautious steps have helped millions in enhancing their fertility rates and ensuring smooth pregnancy journeys.

In an exclusive conversation with WION,&nbsp;Dr Anviti Saraf, IVF Specialist at&nbsp;Nova IVF Fertility, Noida, shared the following:

<h2>What is reproductive health?</h2>

The status of male and female reproductive systems throughout their life phases is referred to as reproductive health. With regards to men, sperm parameters are taken into account, which consists of the concentration, motility and shape of sperm. There are hormone-producing glands in the body, such as the pituitary gland in the brain which create and release hormones that are responsible for regulating sperm production from the testes. Any imbalance at any level or organ may impair sperm production and quality.

<h2>A roadmap to reproductive wellness</h2>

Here're 5 facts that can help men overcome fertility roadblocks and achieve optimal reproductive growth.

Lifestyle changes

Sperm health can be maintained by implementing simple yet effective lifestyle changes such as consumption of a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding excessive alcohol, smoking and tobacco use, and managing stress. Ensuring adequate sleep and limiting caffeine intake are also vital to enhance one’s fertility rates.

Age matters

Everyone is aware of the importance of women’s biological clock during a fertility journey, however, there is widespread ignorance about&nbsp;men’s natural cycles. Although slower as compared to women’s rapid regression, with age, men’s fertility declines too. Although there is a possibility for men to become fathers at later stages, it's important to be aware of the potential impact of age on fertility, especially considering today’s sedentary lifestyle and emerging health hazards, and consider family planning accordingly.

Regular STIs screenings

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can have detrimental effects on male reproductive health. Infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea can lead to inflammation or blockages in the ducts which carry sperm from the testes to semen, potentially causing infertility. The use of condoms and regular STI screenings are essential for maintaining better reproductive health.

Regular check-ups and screenings

Men should prioritise regular check-ups and screenings for reproductive health. These may include semen analysis, hormone level testing, and physical examinations to assess overall reproductive function. Early detection of any potential issues can help identify and address them promptly, increasing the chances of successful treatment and preserving fertility.

Detect underlying health conditions

To promote a smooth fertility journey, it is vital to detect and manage underlying disorders such as diabetes, thyroid difficulties, PCOS, autoimmune conditions, and genetic anomalies. If someone is diagnosed with any cancer which requires chemotherapy or radiotherapy, there is an option of semen freezing before initiating cancer treatment as these therapies tend to affect testicular function and impair sperm production.

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Dealing with fertility challenges can be emotionally and financially taxing. It can be both an overwhelming and an isolating experience. And, a recent World Health Organization report has revealed that infertility is more common than one realises and is a matter of great concern worldwide, with 1 out of every 6 couples experiencing fertility issues.

Dealing with fertility challenges can be emotionally and financially taxing. It can be both an overwhelming and an isolating experience. And, a recent World Health Organization report has revealed that infertility is more common than one realises and is a matter of great concern worldwide, with 1 out of every 6 couples experiencing fertility issues. However, with timely intervention and lifestyle modifications, couples can fulfil their dreams and experience the joy of parenthood. Simple yet cautious steps have helped millions in enhancing their fertility rates and ensuring smooth pregnancy journeys. In an exclusive conversation with WION, Dr Anviti Saraf, IVF Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Noida, shared the following: What is reproductive health? The status of male and female reproductive systems throughout their life phases is referred to as reproductive health. With regards to men, sperm parameters are taken into account, which consists of the concentration, motility and shape of sperm. There are hormone-producing glands in the body, such as the pituitary gland in the brain which create and release hormones that are responsible for regulating sperm production from the testes. Any imbalance at any level or organ may impair sperm production and quality. A roadmap to reproductive wellness Here're 5 facts that can help men overcome fertility roadblocks and achieve optimal reproductive growth. Lifestyle changes Sperm health can be maintained by implementing simple yet effective lifestyle changes such as consumption of a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding excessive alcohol, smoking and tobacco use, and managing stress. Ensuring adequate sleep and limiting caffeine intake are also vital to enhance one’s fertility rates. Age matters Everyone is aware of the importance of women’s biological clock during a fertility journey, however, there is widespread ignorance about men’s natural cycles. Although slower as compared to women’s rapid regression, with age, men’s fertility declines too. Although there is a possibility for men to become fathers at later stages, it's important to be aware of the potential impact of age on fertility, especially considering today’s sedentary lifestyle and emerging health hazards, and consider family planning accordingly. Regular STIs screenings Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can have detrimental effects on male reproductive health. Infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea can lead to inflammation or blockages in the ducts which carry sperm from the testes to semen, potentially causing infertility. The use of condoms and regular STI screenings are essential for maintaining better reproductive health. Regular check-ups and screenings Men should prioritise regular check-ups and screenings for reproductive health. These may include semen analysis, hormone level testing, and physical examinations to assess overall reproductive function. Early detection of any potential issues can help identify and address them promptly, increasing the chances of successful treatment and preserving fertility. Detect underlying health conditions To promote a smooth fertility journey, it is vital to detect and manage underlying disorders such as diabetes, thyroid difficulties, PCOS, autoimmune conditions, and genetic anomalies. If someone is diagnosed with any cancer which requires chemotherapy or radiotherapy, there is an option of semen freezing before initiating cancer treatment as these therapies tend to affect testicular function and impair sperm production. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

5 facts men must know about their reproductive health, according to medical expert

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