[The effect of physical working conditions on female reproduction]

The reproductive hazard of ionizing radiation has been known for half a century. In the last decade studies have demonstrated that many other physical conditions in the working environment affect human reproduction. Micro- and shortwaves are under suspicion of increasing the risk of malformations. The association between work at video display terminals and a raised risk of spontaneous abortion has not been confirmed. The slight suspicion of reduced birth weight in ultrasound exposed fetuses and the association between noise and preterm birth/low birth weight need further investigation. No reproductive hazard has been reported for women in cold or warm working environments. Physical effort and heavy lifting increase the risk of spontaneous abortion and preterm birth/low birth weight.