Association of personal exposure to power-frequency magnetic fields with pregnancy outcomes among women seeking fertility treatment in a longitudinal cohort study

Authors: Mary E Ingle, Lidia Mínguez-Alarcón, Ryan C Lewis, Paige L Williams, Jennifer B Ford, Ramace Dadd, Russ Hauser, John D Meeker, EARTH Study Team

Year: 2020 Oct 6

Category: Epidemiology

Journal: Fertil Steril

DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.05.044

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33036793/

Abstract

Overview

This study investigates for the first time the association between personal exposure to magnetic fields (MF) and pregnancy outcomes in women attending a fertility clinic. By employing a robust study design, it aims to overcome limitations seen in previous research.

Details

  • Study Design: Longitudinal preconception prospective cohort.
  • Setting: Fertility center.
  • Participants: Analysis included 119 women (2012-2018), undergoing 163 IVF cycles and 123 IUI cycles.
  • Intervention: Women wore personal exposure monitors continuously for up to three consecutive 24-hour periods.

Findings

The median and maximum overall daily mean and daily peak MF exposure levels were 1.10 mG and 2.14 mG, and 15.54 mG and 58.73 mG, respectively. Participants changing environments frequently exhibited the highest exposure metrics. No solid statistical links were found between MF exposure and the outcomes of fertility treatments or pregnancies.

Conclusions

Despite not demonstrating a significant association between personal MF exposure and negative pregnancy outcomes, the study provides valuable personal exposure data and insights from a susceptible group. The rigorous design allows for a better understanding of potential MF impact under typical clinical exposures.

Health Implications

Although no direct links were found, varying outcomes suggest a potential for influence on pregnancy results by MF exposure. As such, prospective studies and additional scrutiny are recommended to fully assess these risks.

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