(NaturalHealth365)  The United States birthrate has declined 30% in a decade and a half.  The country’s fertility rate is 1.784, meaning we are well below the fertility replacement rate necessary to sustain our population.

A recent review published in Oxford Academic highlights how the reduction in fertility is a global problem, partially because the worldwide food supply and the environment are laden with harmful chemicals.

A closer look at the forces shaping our future population

The linked report delves into a concerning global trend where half of the world’s nations are witnessing declining fertility rates, sparking heated debates about population replacement.  Looking ahead, most countries are anticipated to undergo a population decrease exceeding 50% between 2017 and 2100.

Sperm counts are diminishing due to phthalates, bisphenol, and other chemicals in the food supply, posing a threat to fertility.  Even minimal exposure to environmental pollutants like endocrine-disrupting chemicals and pesticides can compromise sperm quality and quantity significantly.

Compounding this issue is the widespread termination of undesired pregnancies and the unrestricted distribution of contraceptives in most countries.  This combination provides further context to the deceleration in population growth.  As things stand, the global population is projected to reach around 10 billion by 2064, only to face a potential and substantial decline in the years that follow.

The eye-popping infertility statistics that the mainstream media ignores

The causes of slowed population growth, as highlighted above, have led to infertility in millions of people within the reproductive age range.  Globally, 48 million couples find themselves grappling with the challenges of infertility.

While infertility treatments are available in some first-world nations, they contribute to less than 10% of all births.  The stark reality is that a significant majority of couples lack the financial resources or the patience to endure the waiting period associated with infertility treatments that may or may not result in the desired outcome of having a baby.

Regrettably, the mainstream media has allocated minimal attention to the annual decline in sperm concentration, which stands at 1.4%.  Aggregate sperm counts are experiencing a downward trend of 1.6% per year.

It is crucial not to overlook the fact that women, influenced by economic constraints, career commitments, and their parents’ high divorce rates, are increasingly postponing pregnancy until later in life.  Fecundity, the ability to conceive, diminishes over time.  Although the optimal time for women to reproduce is in their early 20s, the economic feasibility of doing so at such a young age remains a challenge for many.

Potential solutions to the global fertility crisis

To boost fertility and lessen the impact of harmful chemicals on reproductive health, take practical steps.

• Choose products with clean labels, avoiding those with toxic substances.  For instance, opt for skincare products free of parabens and phthalates.
• Opt for organic and natural options for food, personal care, and home items to reduce pesticide exposure.  Try shopping at local farmers’ markets for fresh produce.
• Use eco-friendly cleaning products, reduce plastic use, and filter drinking water to minimize chemical intake.  Consider investing in a water filtration system for your home.
• Spread awareness in your community, attend workshops, and advocate for stricter regulations.  Encourage friends and neighbors to join in making fertility-friendly lifestyle choices.

Acting now is key to paving the way for a healthier and fertility-friendly future.  Simple changes in our daily choices hold significant power, offering a pathway to better reproductive health.

Let’s recognize the urgency of this moment and take immediate steps toward a lifestyle that not only boosts fertility but also contributes to the well-being of future generations.

Sources for this article include:

Academic.oup.com
Childrenshealthdefense.org
Macrotrends.net
Axios.com