bpa-plastics-male-infertility

BPA Tied to Decline in Male Fertility

Researchers are beginning to think that plastics could be to blame for the decrease in male fertility over time as a population. A study published in PLOS Genetics suggests that bisphenol A (BPA), a compound found in many plastics, could be an environmental factor leading to lessened sperm production. The Washington University researchers believe that BPA could be acting as an estrogen-like compound and disrupting meiosis during spermatogenesis, the development of sperm cells. The study and others like it have shown BPA to critically impact development of sensitive tissue in mice, and most recently in zebrafish, where environmental levels of BPA were enough to alter brain development.

Dr. Parviz Kavoussi, a leader in the field of Reproductive Urology, says that sperm cells are some of the most susceptible cells in the body to environmental toxins such as phthalates and BPA. Dr. Kavoussi also points out that the dramatic increase of plastic usage and exposure in everyday life over the past century could be having a critical effect on these sperm cells, and could be the cause of males’ dramatically declined fertility and sperm counts. He states, “Plastic, which has become more and more a part of everyday life is now becoming notorious for having an adverse impact on sperm production. It is concerning that this recent data shows that the BPA in plastics could be negatively impacting sperm development also.” He goes on to suggest that, “one cannot simply cut out plastics from their everyday life, but instead, proper measures should be taken to ensure male reproductive health.”

In addition to being one of the foremost thought leaders and distinguished researchers in Reproductive Urology, Dr. Kavoussi practices at Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, noted for its comprehensive fertility services to couples as a whole. He continues to innovate in the field of male fertility, and offers a wide range of treatments to combat issues in male fertility and sexual health.

To schedule a fertility consultation with Dr. Kavoussi, contact Austin Fertility and Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF at (512) 444-1414 or via email.