Previous studies have shown that EDCs disrupt normal sex-hormone function in humans.

A new study has found high levels of chemicals known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in water samples obtained at sites in the state of Colorado where hydraulic fracturing (fracking) is used to extract oil and gas. Previous studies have shown that EDCs disrupt normal sex-hormone function in humans. They have been linked to cancer, infertility and disruption of normal reproductive function in men and women; birth defects; impaired immune and neural function; and several other health problems in humans. Researchers have found that fetuses, infants and young children exposed to EDCshave a higher risk of illnesses related to endocrine malfunction. According to the study published recently by the journal Endocrinology, high levels of EDCs were found in surface and groundwater samples collected in Colorado's Garfield County, a major oil and gas development area with over 10,000 well s where fracking is practiced. The researchers collected water samples at five fracking sites in Garfield County where spills were known to have occurred in the last six years. They tested the samples for different types of EDCs and found that, "Of the 39 unique water samples, 89 percent, 41 percent, 12 percent, and 46 percent exhibited estrogenic, anti-estrogenic, androgenic, and anti-androgenic activities, respectively.” The study found that water samples collected from the Colorado River also had significantly high levels of EDCs. The Colorado River, being the major drainage basin in the region, receives fracking wastewater spills occurring at natural gas wells in the region. Significantly, the researchers found that water collected from sites with low or no fracking activity in Garfield County and Missouri had much lower levels of EDCs. The Los Angeles Times reports that Susan Nagel, an endocrinologist at the University of Missouri School of Medicine and lead author of the study, said, "With fracking on the rise, populations may face greater health risks from increased endocrine-disrupting chemical exposure." This is not the first time that researchers have raised concern about chemicals used in fracking known or suspected to be EDCs. According to the Los Angeles Times, researchers have identified about 100 such chemicals used in fracking. Read more...

Frequently Asked Questions

What are endocrine-disrupting chemicals and can they affect my fertility?

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are substances that interfere with your body's natural hormone systems, including the sex hormones essential for reproduction. Research has linked EDC exposure to infertility, disrupted reproductive function, and birth defects in both men and women. With 1 in 7 UK couples experiencing fertility issues, understanding environmental factors like EDC exposure is increasingly important when trying to conceive.

Should I be worried about water contamination affecting my chances of getting pregnant UK?

Whilst the study mentioned focuses on fracking sites in the US, concerns about water quality and fertility are valid for UK couples TTC. UK drinking water is regulated by the Drinking Water Inspectorate and must meet strict safety standards, though if you have concerns, you can request a water quality report from your local supplier. If you're struggling to conceive after 12 months of trying, the NHS recommends speaking with your GP about a referral for fertility investigations.

Can environmental toxins cause male infertility NHS?

The NHS recognises that environmental factors, including exposure to certain chemicals, can affect sperm quality and male fertility. EDCs with anti-androgenic properties can interfere with testosterone and sperm production. If you're concerned about male factor infertility, your GP can arrange a semen analysis as part of initial fertility investigations, typically after 12 months of unsuccessful attempts to conceive.

How can I reduce my exposure to endocrine disruptors when trying to conceive?

Reducing EDC exposure whilst TTC can include filtering your drinking water, avoiding plastic food containers (especially when heating food), choosing natural cleaning and personal care products, and eating organic produce where possible. NICE guidelines emphasise the importance of preconception health, and minimising exposure to harmful chemicals is a sensible step for both partners preparing for pregnancy.

Will the NHS test me for chemical exposure if I'm having trouble conceiving?

Standard NHS fertility investigations don't typically include testing for EDC exposure, as these tests aren't routinely available. However, your GP or fertility clinic will assess hormone levels, which can reveal if your endocrine system isn't functioning properly. If you've been trying to conceive for over a year (or six months if you're over 36), you're entitled to an NHS referral for fertility assessment according to NICE guidelines.

Do endocrine disruptors affect IVF success rates?

Research suggests that EDC exposure may impact IVF outcomes by affecting egg quality, hormone levels, and embryo development. The HFEA recommends that couples undergoing fertility treatment maintain a healthy lifestyle and minimise exposure to harmful substances. Whilst clinics don't routinely test for EDCs, optimising your overall health and reducing chemical exposure may support better treatment outcomes.

Are birth defects from chemical exposure covered by NHS prenatal screening?

NHS prenatal screening checks for specific chromosomal conditions and structural abnormalities, but doesn't specifically test for defects caused by EDC exposure. However, anomaly scans at around 20 weeks can detect many physical abnormalities regardless of their cause. If you have concerns about environmental exposures before or during pregnancy, discuss them with your midwife or GP who can provide appropriate guidance and reassurance.