The Influence of Environmental Factors on Ovarian Function, Follicular Genesis, and Oocyte Quality

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) exist ubiquitously in the environment. Epidemiological data suggest that the increasing prevalence of infertility may be related to the numerous chemicals. Exposure to EDCs may have significant adverse impacts on the reproductive system including fertility, ovarian reserve, and sex steroid hormone levels. This chapter covers the common exposure ways, the origins of EDCs, and their effects on ovarian function, follicular genesis, and oocyte quality. Furthermore, we will review the origin and the physiology of ovarian development, as well as explore the mechanisms in which EDCs act on the ovary from human and animal data. And then, we will focus on the bisphenol A (BPA), which has been shown to reduce fertility and ovarian reserve, as well as disrupt steroidogenesis in animal and human models. Finally, we will discuss the future direction of prevention and solution methods.