A new study conducted by researchers at the University of California Berkley has shown a link between flame retardants and fertility. The study results can be found in the January 26th Journal of Environmental Health Perspectives. Results of the study found that women had difficulty getting pregnant when they had high levels of flame retardant chemicals in their blood stream.

The flame retardants that were in question are PBDE’s or polybrominated diphenyl ethers. These chemicals are commonly found in American homes in a variety of household items. These items include but are not limited to electronics, fabrics, carpets, plastics and foam furniture.

This is not the first time that these flame retardant chemicals have been scrutinized. They have been thought for some time now, by many, to cause a variety of health related issues. PBDE’s have known similarities to other chemicals known as PCB’s. PCB’s were banned back in the 1970’s when they were found to be toxic. Both PBDE’s and PVB’s have similar functions.

This particular study on the chemicals looked at 223 Mexican women who were trying to become pregnant. The researchers performing the study measured levels of the flame retardant chemicals in the women’s blood stream prior to attempts to conceive. High levels of the chemical present were associated with a 30% drop in the likelihood of becoming pregnant each month.

Looking at the data of the study, women who participated and had low levels of the flame retardant in their blood had a much easier time conceiving. In fact in any given month they were twice as likely to conceive as those women with high levels of the chemical present.

Outside factors were also considered in the study. The researchers were careful to factor into their findings the women’s menstrual cycles, use of birth control pills prior to trying to conceive, pre-pregnancy BMI and frequency of intercourse. Also looked at were the consumption levels of alcohol and caffeine and whether or not the women were smokers.

Some states prior to the study had already taken action to remove these chemicals from products sold. CA and other states have actually banned the use of some PBDE’s, but only since 2004.

Future studies will need to be conducted to determine more closely the true impact that these flame retardants have on the female reproductive system. Studies to determine other health issues these chemicals may cause are also being encouraged.