Delhi's Smog: A Silent Threat to Fertility
Delhi’s air quality takes a severe dip after Diwali, with the festive atmosphere masking a dangerous reality. The smog not only causes immediate respiratory issues but also poses a silent threat to fertility in both men and women. As Dr. Puneet Rana Arora, an IVF expert from CIFAR in Gurugram, explains, pollutants like PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide infiltrate our bodies, leading to hormonal disturbances that affect reproductive health.
These pollutants can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, which is critical for both ovulation in women and sperm production in men. Women might experience irregular menstrual cycles, reduced ovarian reserve, and even premature menopause due to the toxins present in the air. Research indicates that these pollutants can hamper estrogen levels, affecting egg quality and increasing the risk of infertility and complications during pregnancy.
For men, prolonged exposure to harmful smog can lead to reduced sperm count and motility, as well as abnormalities in sperm structure. Studies show that heavy metals found in the post-Diwali air can also damage sperm DNA, making the problem of male infertility more pronounced. Dr. Arora emphasizes that inhaling these toxic particles during the smog season can result in DNA fragmentation in sperm, which not only impacts fertility but may also endanger the health of future children.
Even after the visible smog clears, harmful particles remain suspended in the air, continuing to affect our health. This leads to long-term hormonal stress, reduced reproductive efficiency, and higher chances of miscarriages or developmental issues in children born to affected parents. “Reproductive health is one of the first casualties of environmental toxins,” warns Dr. Arora, adding that many only realize the impact after struggling to conceive.
While it will take time to implement cleaner air policies, there are steps individuals can take to protect themselves. As Delhi grapples with post-Diwali haze, it’s crucial to recognize that smog’s effects extend beyond our lungs and can undermine our ability to start families. Cleaner air is essential not just for breathing easier, but for safeguarding reproductive health as well.
