Endokrine Disruptoren

Background

We are constantly exposed to a cocktail of substances that could act as endocrine disruptors. Experiences with substances like diethylstilbestrol have proven that the female reproductive organs can be damaged irreversibly by exposure to exogenous hormones during sensitive developmental stages. It is therefore necessary to address this important issue.

Objectives

The adverse effects of endocrine disruptors on the female reproductive organs are summarized. In addition, special aspects of the toxicity of these substances are identified.

Materials and methods

Selected literature on the adverse effects of endocrine disruptors on female reproductive organs was screened and evaluated.

Results

The majority of findings on the adverse effects of endocrine disruptors on the female organism are derived from animal studies. Observed toxicities affect all female reproductive organs (ovaries, uterus, vagina) and the timing of sexual maturation. The effects include polycystic ovary syndrome, altered cycliscity, endometriosis, pregnancy complications, and uterine fibroids. Importantly, the damage does not usually manifest directly after exposition, but after a considerable temporal interval.

Conclusion

Exposure to endocrine disrupters can damage the female reproductive organs. Embryos, fetuses, and newborn babies are much more sensitive than adult women. The extent to which our health is affected by the continuous intake of low quantities of various endocrine disrupters from the environment is very difficult to estimate. Endocrine disruptors therefore remain in the focus of toxicological research.