| Sumario: | Objective: Infertility affects 10-15% of couples during the reproductive period. Ovulatory disorders are more common in younger women whereas unexplained infertility occurs more commonly in older women. Recently, many environmental agents, such as cigarettes, alcohol, heat, electromagnetic energy and radiation have been shown to have negative effects on the reproductive system. Environmental factors and exposure to heavy metals change fertility patterns in adults by affecting germ cell maturation, fertilization and the endocrine system. We aimed to investigate the effect of trace elements and heavy metals in blood and cervical mucus on female infertility. Material and Methods: Study was performed with 50 women: Infertile (n=35) and controls (n=15). Blood and cervical mucus samples were collected to measure Zn, Cu, Cd, and Pb levels. Results: Mean blood plasma and cervical mucus Zn, Cd, and Cu levels in the infertile group were significantly lower than those in the control group. Whole blood Pb level was higher in the infertile group compared to the control group. Although blood Cd level tended to be higher in smokers and cervical mucus Cd level tended to be lower in controls, neither of these difference were statistically significant. Conclusion: Lower levels of plasma and cervical mucus Zn and Cu were thought to result from higher levels of Cd and Pb in blood and cervical mucus. Abnormal levels of heavy metals in blood and cervical mucus may have adverse effects on the female reproductive function.
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