Association of Ambient Air Pollution and Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women with Assisted Reproductive Technology in Qingdao, China: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Ambient air pollutants, a major global public health concern, have been widely documented in recent years as key risk factors for adverse reproductive system outcomes. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has become an important therapeutic means for infertility, but its pregnancy outcomes are influenced by various environmental factors. Thus, we explored the effects of ambient air pollutants on populations undergoing ART. Methods: The retrospective cohort study included 3478 infertility patients with fresh embryo transplantation residing in Qingdao City who underwent in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection in China from 2021 to 2023. We employed multivariable logistic regression to assess the effects of contaminants on oocyte quality, embryonic development, and pregnancy outcomes. Stratified analysis was conducted to identify potential vulnerable subpopulations. Results: . Conclusion: . This study provides a scientific basis for the prevention of air pollution and clinical decision-making in ART population. It is necessary to develop personalized intervention strategies for sensitive populations and strengthen the environmental control of related pollutants.