The effect of heavy metals on miscarriage

Abstract

Objective: In a world where industrial pollution is increasing day by day, heavy metals are one of the important factors threatening human health. The rates of pregnancy loss and subfertility are continuously increasing. This study aims to explain the effects of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) levels on the etiology of abortions. Material and Methods: The study was designed as a case-control study with two groups: healthy volunteers (n=20) and miscarriage (n=29) group. The pregnant women with similar demographic characteristics were divided into two groups and peripheral venous blood samples of the study subjects were collected. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used to examine the blood samples and the levels of heavy metal. Results: While the Pb level was found to be higher in the miscarriage group (p=0.038), there was no statistical difference between Cd and Hg levels (p>0.005) in the two groups. On comparing the laboratory values of pregnant women in the control and miscarriage groups, blood progesterone values were observed to be lower in the miscarriage group (p<0.001). Conclusion: This study indicates that heavy metals, even below the toxic dose limits, can cause miscarriage. Higher blood Pb levels were found in the miscarriage group while Hg and Cd levels were not different between the two groups. This research points out that the high levels of lead may have an effect on pregnancy loss.