Doctors from the Reproductive Toxicology Laboratory and the Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation have found that mice exposed to common garden pesticides experienced fertility problems.
The chemicals tested included six herbicides, two fungicides, a fertilizer and three insecticides: chlorpyrifos, terbufos, and permethrin.
Weed Killer And Insecticide Caused Cell Death In Mouse Embryos
A group of embryos were grown in vitro in some solution that encourages the healthy development of the embryo. Another group were grown in a solution that had been exposed to pesticides, insecticides and other garden chemicals.
In 11 of the chemicals cell death was induced and three of the chemicals caused arrested or slowed cell development.
Apoptosis
Apoptosis - or organised cell death - is different from that of natural cell death due to age or disease processes. In apoptosis proteins called caspases are activated and these give the cells the instructions to shut down. Cells then begin to shrink and die in an organized controlled fashion. This is why apoptosis has sometimes been referred to as 'cell suicide'.
This is the process which occured in the mouse embryos that had been exposed to pesticides.
Occupational or recreational exposure to chemicals through gardening may increase infertility, miscarriages, birth defects and premature delivery in humans. In the mice exposure to chemicals caused pre-implantation development problems corresponding with the first five to seven days of human life after conception.
The study showed that significant damage can be caused by pesticides at a very early stage of development and at very small concentrations previously thought to be harmless. A reduction in the number of embryonic cells produced in the first few days was also noted and researchers theorize that this may contribute to implantation failure in humans and could lengthen the amount of time it takes a woman to get pregnant.
'Agro-Chemicals And Lawn Care Products Were Previously Thought To Have No Adverse Health Consequences For Humans'
Anne Greenlee, lead author of the study, said, "Women or trying to conceive should make every effort to minimize their exposure to lawn care and agro-chemical products. Applying these products according to label guidelines and wearing protective gear such as masks or gloves can reduce exposure. It's important to adhere to the length of time manufacturer's say you should remain off your lawn after using them."
The research was published in Environmental Health Perspectives volume 112 number 6 May 2004.
Occupational Hazard
Earlier studies have suggested similar findings. A study in the American Journal of Industrial Medicine found that men who had an occupational exposure to pesticides were 10 times more likely to be infertile than those who didn't.
(American Journal of Industrial Medicine Vol. 24:587-592, 1983).
Some 1990s studies found that exposure to pesticides caused immune infertility where the body's immune system attacks eggs and sperm.
(Archives of Environmental Health Vol. 48(2), 1993 March/April).
Another study found that exposure to pesticides not only lowered sperm count but also damaged the part of the testicles that produces sperm.
(Bulletin of Environmental Contamination Vol. 39:434-442, 1987).
Tips For Safeguarding Your Fertility
- If you work with chemicals ask your employer if you can reduce the number of hours you are exposed to them. If this isn't possible always wear gloves and a mask.
- If you intend to put pesticide on your lawn and you are planning a baby see if there is someone else who can do the job for you.
- Don't go on your lawn for a few hours after treatment.
- Wash your hands throughly after use.
- Consider going organic as organic products don't have a chemical risk.
