A recent U.S. study published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine reveals how demanding work environments can impact women's fertility. Specifically, night shifts and physically strenuous jobs—such as frequent heavy lifting—appear to diminish ovarian reserve and treatment outcomes.
Researchers analyzed 473 women seeking fertility treatment at a specialized clinic, with a median age of 35. Those regularly lifting heavy objects showed lower oocyte reserves. Among IVF patients, ovarian stimulation yielded 14.5% fewer mature oocytes on average. Effects were amplified in overweight women (BMI ≥25). Similar patterns emerged for women on rotating, evening, or night shifts.
Though limited in scale, this research aligns with prior studies suggesting occupational factors influence fertility. It opens promising avenues for future reproductive health investigations.
