Climate change is reshaping our world in many ways—from extreme weather and rising sea levels to shifting agricultural patterns. Yet one of the less-discussed impacts is on human health, especially female reproductive health. Recent studies suggest that the environmental changes brought about by global warming, including rising temperatures, air pollution, and exposure to endocrine disruptors, may be taking a toll on women’s fertility. This article explores the evidence behind these concerns, the biological mechanisms involved, and what steps might be taken to help protect reproductive health in a warming world.
For many years, scientists have known that environmental factors play a critical role in overall health, including the ability to conceive. Women’s fertility is closely tied to the balance of hormones and the proper functioning of the ovaries, which are particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations and chemical exposures. As global temperatures continue to rise and air quality deteriorates in many regions, there is growing concern that these changes could be affecting ovarian function, menstrual cycle regularity, and ultimately, the ability to conceive.
Studies have highlighted a link between climate change and reproductive health. Researchers have observed that populations living in areas with higher ambient temperatures often show signs of earlier ovarian aging and reduced ovarian reserve. In other words, exposure to chronic heat may lead to a decline in the number and quality of eggs available for fertilization. Although some of these findings are preliminary, they suggest that even small changes in environmental temperature over time can have significant consequences for women’s reproductive systems.
Another important aspect is the effect of air pollution, which is also exacerbated by climate change. Studies indicate that higher levels of pollutants, such as fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and even wildfire smoke, are associated with changes in hormonal balance and inflammation in the reproductive system. Women undergoing fertility treatments in areas affected by severe air pollution have shown lower success rates in achieving pregnancy. In one study, patients exposed to wildfire smoke experienced reduced blastocyst formation—a key step in early embryo development—compared to those who were not exposed. This research, originally conducted on fertility patients, underscores that poor air quality may further complicate an already challenging landscape for conception.
The impact of endocrine disruptors is another piece of the puzzle. These chemicals, which can be found in many everyday products—from plastics to cosmetics—mimic or block the hormones that are essential for regulating the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Even in small amounts, endocrine disruptors such as bisphenol-A (BPA) and certain phthalates have been linked to irregular cycles, lower egg quality, and reduced fertility. A growing body of evidence from both laboratory studies and real-world data indicates that women exposed to these chemicals may have a higher risk of infertility and other reproductive disorders. A report published in The Wall Street Journal in December 2024 even noted that experts believe synthetic chemicals are playing a significant role in the global decline in fertility rates.
Elevated Temperatures Amid Hormonal Changes
Heat itself has a direct effect on the female reproductive system. Elevated temperatures have been shown to alter blood flow and damage delicate ovarian tissues. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that even a modest increase in core body temperature can affect the cellular processes necessary for proper egg development. The ovaries rely on a finely tuned environment in which enzymes, hormones, and growth factors interact in balance. Disruptions caused by external heat can disturb these interactions, leading to cellular stress and reduced function. For example, one study found that populations exposed to prolonged high temperatures had a higher incidence of irregular menstrual cycles and lower levels of estrogen, a hormone critical for ovulation and endometrial preparation. This not only impacts the likelihood of conception but also raises the risk of complications during pregnancy.
In addition to the direct physiological effects, climate change indirectly influences female fertility through social and economic channels. Extreme weather events, such as heat waves and severe droughts, can lead to food insecurity and malnutrition. Proper nutrition is vital for reproductive health, and deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals can impair hormone production and egg quality. Women facing chronic stress from economic hardship or environmental disasters are also more likely to experience disruptions in their menstrual cycles. Stress, both physical and psychological, is known to affect the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis—a system that regulates reproduction. High levels of stress hormones like cortisol can suppress the release of reproductive hormones, further reducing fertility.
There is a pressing need to understand these multifaceted challenges as climate change intensifies. Research published as recently as 2021 in systematic reviews has underscored that declining fertility rates in many parts of the world may be linked to environmental stressors. Although the picture is complex and factors such as age, lifestyle, and genetics also play important roles, the influence of climate change is emerging as a significant piece of the fertility puzzle. In some regions, especially those facing rapid warming and high levels of pollution, the effects are already noticeable. Women living in urban areas with poor air quality or in regions with frequent heat waves may face higher risks of reproductive challenges compared to those in milder climates.
On a personal level, there are steps that women can take to mitigate some of these risks. Simple lifestyle adjustments—such as ensuring a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing exposure to known pollutants—can help support reproductive health. Healthcare providers are increasingly urging women to be aware of the environmental exposures that may affect their fertility and to discuss these concerns during routine medical visits. For women planning to conceive, monitoring exposure to high temperatures and pollutants can be an important part of preconception care.
At the same time, systemic changes are essential to address the root causes of these issues. Global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality will benefit public health on many fronts, including fertility. Governments and organizations worldwide are beginning to recognize the far-reaching effects of climate change, and investing in sustainable energy, better urban planning, and stricter pollution controls is critical. As more data become available, public health policies may also need to incorporate guidelines specifically aimed at protecting reproductive health in a changing climate.
In summary, climate change poses a growing threat to female fertility through direct effects such as elevated temperatures that disrupt ovarian function, as well as indirect effects from poor air quality, endocrine disruptors, and chronic stress. The cumulative impact of these factors may lead to irregular cycles, reduced egg quality, and lower pregnancy rates. While individual lifestyle changes can provide some protection, collective action on environmental policies is vital to safeguard reproductive health for future generations.
The time to act is now. As our planet warms, understanding and mitigating these risks will be crucial for ensuring that women can enjoy a healthy reproductive life. Researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers must work together to explore new strategies for prevention and intervention. With coordinated global efforts and informed personal choices, it may still be possible to turn the tide on the fertility crisis brought on by climate change.
Author: Augustina Entsua-Mensah
Co-Founder, Youth for Climate Change Africa
