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Factors Affecting Reproductive Health Smoking Females who smoke are at increased risk for: - Lowering of folic acid, and Vitamin C levels which can cause infertility Spontaneous abortion (miscarriage) and neonatal death Child with lower birth weight Males who smoke are at increased risk for: - Reduced quality of sperm Alcohol Males who abuse alcohol risk: - Reducing sperm quality Affecting ability to maintain erection Chemical Exposure The following chemicals can result in low birth weight, stillbirth and birth defects: - Carbon Monoxide Kerosene Lead Paint strippers Medications Some prescription drugs may affect sperm production or ovulation: - Anti-depressants Blood pressure medication Some prescription drugs may cause fetal defects: - Anti-coagulants (blood thinners) Steroids Acutane (acne treatment) Chemotherapy (cancer treatment) often affects sperm quality and ovulation. Always check the label of any drugs for side effects. Sexual Health History Some women with multiple sexual partners can develop anti-bodies to sperm. The leading cause of preventable infertility is Chlamydia infection. Other S.T.I’s that commonly cause infertility include: - H.I.V / A.I.D.S Gonorrhea Genital Herpes Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) These S.T.I’s cause scarring on fallopian tubes and epididymis which affect fertility. Hormonal / Genetic Factors Hormonal Factors include: - failure to ovulate regularly hypothalamus or pituitary gland problems too much prolactin or testosterone (polycystic ovary syndrome) Genetic Factors include: - - Problems with any structure of male or female reproductive system including poor development of sperm, epididymis, vas deferens, ovary, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervical mucous Immune system can recognize sperm as toxic General Health The following illnesses/conditions can affect fertility: - Diabetes Mumps Rubella Kidney disease Spinal cord injuries Heat/Radiation Exposure Any excessive exposure to heat or nuclear or electromagnetic radiation can affect fertility. This exposure can come from: - Work hazards - Laptops - Hot Tubs - Microwaves - Cell phones - Heated seats Stress, nutrition, and exercise all play a role in fertility as well. Fertility Treatments The most common fertility treatments include: 1) Hormone therapy: Changing hormone levels may correct condition of sperm or ova. 2) Surgery: Scarred tissue can be replaced or blockages corrected 3) Assisted Reproduction Techniques: Artificial Insemination and In-vitro Fertilization are the most common Important Tests Females: Breast Examination: - Regularly checking all aspects of breast tissue for lumps - Early detection of breast cancer allows for better treatment PAP Test: - Swab of vaginal area that detects infection or cancerous cells in vulva - This can be arranged with a family doctor or health care clinic - Recommended that females have PAP smear every 3 years at age 21 Males: Testicular Exam: - Regularly checking testicles for swelling or large lumps - Early detection of testicular cancer allows for better treatment Both: STI Test: - Before having sex with any sexual partner, it is important to be tested! - This can be arranged with a family doctor or health care clinic - Involves blood sample, urine sample, swab of genital area for complete testing