The effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on ovarian- and ovulation-related fertility outcomes.

Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is unavoidable, which represents a public health concern given the ability of EDCs to target the ovary. However, there is a large gap in the knowledge about the impact of EDCs on ovarian function, including the process of ovulation. Defects in ovulation are the leading cause of infertility in women, and EDC exposures are contributing to the prevalence of infertility.

Ovulation is Inhibited by an Environmentally Relevant Phthalate Mixture in Mouse Antral Follicles In Vitro.

Phthalates are solvents and plasticizers found in consumer products including cosmetics, food/beverage containers, housing materials, etc. Phthalates are known endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can directly target the ovary, potentially causing defects in ovulation and fertility. Women are exposed to multiple different phthalates daily, therefore this study investigated the effects of an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture (PHTmix) on ovulation.