Introductory remarks: environmental and endogenous hazards to the female reproductive system

The toxic action of environmental chemicals on reproduction and the toxiclike effects of ovarian hormones have been shown by numerous investigators. Some toxic effects of environmental chemicals on reproduction are through their action on hormonal secretion. Such effects on the endocrine system could provide additional approaches to investigations of toxicity of compounds. A better understanding of interactions of environmental chemicals with the endocrine system is needed. Therefore, it becomes important for a greater exchange of information and more interaction between toxicologists and endocrinologists.