Consequences and Functional Alterations of Endocrine Disruptors on Women's Health

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are anthropogenic compounds that have garnered significant research consideration due to their harmful effects on human health. These compounds disrupt normal physiological homeostasis by interfering with processes such as hormone synthesis, transport, metabolism, and excretion. Even at low concentrations, EDCs can contribute to severe health issues, including life-threatening cancers and metabolic disorders in humans and animals. Consequently, monitoring EDCs in human populations is a critical area of focus. Preclinical and <i>in vitro</i> studies have established the impact of EDCs on hormonal pathways, particularly in male and female gonadal development. Furthermore, biomonitoring studies have detected EDCs in various biological matrices, including those of foetuses, children, and pregnant women. Exposure to EDCs has been associated with complications in the female reproductive system, like premature ovarian failure, precocious puberty, and polycystic ovary syndrome. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the associations between EDC exposure and female reproductive dysfunction, emphasizing potential mechanisms underlying these effects.