Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Background: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a type of substance that can interact with the endocrine system and disturb normal hormone function. EDC exposure has been increasingly associated with reproductive health disorders, especially those affecting the female reproductive system. This study investigates the effect of EDCs on fertility of females in two years of academic research on a sample of females in a major fertility center in Baghdad City, Iraq. 
Objective: This study aimed to review the evidence linking exposure to EDCs and female fertility, including ovarian reserve, hormonal levels and other fertility-related domains. This study sought to evaluate the effects of EDC exposure on reproductive parameters that include hormone profiles, ultrasound assessments, and fertility indexes at different levels of EDC concentrations. 
Methodology: Between January 1, 2023, and January 1, 2025, this prospective cohort study enrolled 1500 reproductive-aged women between 18 and 40 years who attended the Al-Kindy Teaching Hospital, Baghdad for fertility treatment. They collected data by assessing blood and urine for suspected EDCs (Bisphenol A, phthalates, pesticides, etc.) and measuring key hormones like estradiol, progesterone and FSH. Assessment of ovarian reserve, antral follicle count, and ovarian size were by ultrasound. Statistical analyses (including paired t-tests, ANOVA, and regression models) were carried out to analyze the data. 
Results: As exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) increased, so did self-reported connections between tiredness and sleep badness. Deeper levels of EDC exposure showed themselves in poorer ovarian reserve scores, higher ratios of unhappiness to happiness, and fewer births than sole children. Lower estradiol, progesterone, and FSH were found in women with greater levels of EDC exposure. Ultrasound assessments indicated that antral follicle count and ovarian size decreased in women exposed more to EDC than those without this tasting on their tongues. In addition, the findings suggested that EDC exposure may affect the effectiveness of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) as they help women who are undergoing fertility treatment. 
Conclusion: This research pointed out the negative effects of EDCs on women's reproductive health， including ovarian reserve and hormone levels. Ecological studies demonstrated a strong negative relationship between exposure to environmental toxins and reproductive health parameters, confirming the necessity of policy intervention and public awareness to reduce EDC exposure. We know from these findings that further research is needed to see how these chemicals will affect women's ageing reproductive systems over time.