Assessment of environmental knowledge and needs among infertile couples undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART): insights from a pilot survey
摘要
This pilot survey aims to evaluate the interest, knowledge, and exposure of infertile couples undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) regarding environmental toxins. Ultimately, we will seek to identify the most appropriate means of information delivery according to the patients in order to optimize environmental health education. This was a cross-sectional, single-center pilot survey based on an anonymous and voluntary survey, conducted among infertile couples undergoing ART. Among the 257 respondents, 93% were convinced of the impact of environmental toxins on fertility, pregnancy, and the health of future children, while 84% expressed a desire to receive additional information, primarily (56%) in the form of brochures and dedicated pages on the ART center’s website. Patients gave 49.7% correct answers regarding the effects of environmental toxins, with significant variability depending on the sources of exposure. The most concerning exposures involved food plastics and volatile organic compounds released by ambient fragrances. This study confirms infertile patients’ strong interest in environmental health and identifies key areas of knowledge gaps and preferred formats for educational tools. These findings support the integration of accessible and targeted environmental health information during ART care, particularly in the preconception period.