Impact of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals on Reproductive Health: A Conceptual Review

Abstract

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are external agents that alter hormonal production, release, transport, metabolism, or receptor activity, thereby negatively influencing reproductive function. Growing exposure to environmental contaminants— including plastics, pesticides, industrial compounds, cosmetics, and heavy metals—has been increasingly linked to menstrual disturbances, ovulatory disorders, infertility, and unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. In Ayurvedic terms, such substances may be considered Āgantuja Nidāna, which provoke Doṣa imbalance, weaken Agni, encourage Āma accumulation, and cause vitiation of Rasa, Rakta, and Ārtava Dhātu. These pathological changes impair Ārtavavaha Srotas, resulting in conditions such as Vandhyatva and Ārtava Vyāpada. This conceptual review seeks to integrate contemporary scientific knowledge of endocrine disruptors with classical Ayurvedic concepts and to explore preventive and therapeutic strategies described in Ayurveda for safeguarding reproductive health. Emphasis is placed on Nidāna Parivarjana, lifestyle regulation, Pañcakarma therapies, and Rasāyana interventions as potential measures to reduce reproductive toxicity caused by endocrine disruptors.