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Endocrine disruptors

Manmade and natural oestrogens: opposite effects on assisted reproduction

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In a new study, a dramatic decrease in the frequency of implantation, pregnancy and live birth is associated with increased urine levels of bisphenol A (BPA) in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, in women who consume soy-containing foods, the interfering effect of BPA on IVF success is negated.

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References

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Acknowledgements

We thank Professor Patricia A. Hunt, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA, for advice during the preparation of the manuscript.

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Correspondence to Frederick S. vom Saal.

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The authors declare no competing financial interests.

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vom Saal, F., Welshons, W. Manmade and natural oestrogens: opposite effects on assisted reproduction. Nat Rev Endocrinol 12, 251–252 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrendo.2016.38

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