The Effects of Bisphenol A on Fertility and Pregnancy Outcomes

Date of Award

2010

Document Type

Thesis

College/School

College of Nursing

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Program Concentration

Advanced Practice Nursing Immersion Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Family Primary Care Specialization

Abstract

Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical found in the blood of 93% of the population, has been linked to increased rates of cancer, endometriosis, mental health changes, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and general morbidity. This review considers the effects of BPA on fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Peer-reviewed human research studies were used, as well as animal studies when human studies were not available. Results show that BPA is found in follicular fluid of the human ovum, amniotic fluid, umbilical cord blood, and newborn serum. The health effects of BPA exposure on fertility include increased male sexual dysfunction, oocyte chromosomal abnormalities, and female endometrial cell dysfunction. Effects on pregnancy outcomes include recurrent miscarriage, placental cells death, and decreased birth weight. There is a great deal of controversy about levels of BPA considered safe. A 2007 US government review found BPA to be generally safe, disagreeing with the vast majority of non-industry funded studies, however parties involved in this review process had close ties to the chemicals industry, presenting a major conflict of interest. Currently, the data and health effects are in the process of re-review. The Precautionary Principle states that when a potential threat to human health or the environment exists, precautionary measures should be taken even when there is still scientific debate as to the extent of potential harm. This principle suggests that increased legislative regulations are warranted in the case of BPA. Methods to limit the effects of BPA include limiting personal exposure. There is some evidence for supplementation, as studies have found that that folic acid, black tea extract, and quericin helped to mitigate the effects of BPA. This review is significant because of the large amounts of BPA being produced annually. Increasing awareness of the issues surrounding BPA will help to influence legislative measures and individual health choices.

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