Urinary Paraben Derivatives in Infertile Women; Is It a Cause of Concern?

Abstract

Background: Parabens (PBs) may have potential endocrine disruption effects and may affect fertility. Objectives: This study aimed to find the relationship between the urinary concentration of PB derivatives, including methylparaben (MP), ethylparaben (EP), propylparaben (PP), and butylparaben (BP), with the hormonal profile and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes of infertile women. Methods: This case-control study was conducted in an academic center in Tehran from April to December 2021. The demographic data and lifestyle components as well as the urinary MP, EP, PP, and BP among the infertile and fertile women were evaluated and compared. Also, in infertile patients, the correlation between the hormonal profile and IVF outcomes (the number and quality of oocytes and embryos) with urinary PBs was assessed and reported. Results: A total of 206 women were included in the study. The distribution of urinary PB concentrations between groups was not significantly different. The frequency and comparison of used personal care products, cosmetics, detergents, and foodstuffs for some items except folic acid were significantly higher in the control group. Comparing the effects of PBs on hormones, a significant impact of MP on estradiol was observed for the second, third, and fourth quantiles. The follicle-stimulating hormone was significantly affected by the fourth quartile of EP. Additionally, the effect of EP on anti-mullerian hormones was negative and significant for the fourth quartile compared to the first quartile. Conclusions: Urinary PB levels may not be an indicator for infertility and hormonal distribution, at least for a short duration, and did not impact IVF outcomes.