Effects of occupational physical exposure on the reproductive system

[[abstract]]Introduction: In 2006, a series of in-depth reviews was made to present a comprehensive picture of the role of occupational risk factors in reproductive health. The current review aims to summarize and interpret updated epidemiologic evidence on the relationship between occupational physical exposures and adverse reproductive outcomes among workers during 2006-2021. Materials and Methods: Relevant studies published during 2006-2021 were identified through the search of Pubmed database using "Reproduction"[MeSH Terms]) AND ("occupation*"OR "Occupational Exposure"[MeSH Terms] as keywords. Only human epidemiologic studies that address occupational chemical exposures were included. Results: Among 5,441 searched articles, 59 articles were included. As with the above-mentioned reviews, radiation (23 articles) and physical workloads (25 articles) remained the mainstay of occupational reproductive hazards. Reported effects of ionizing (e.g., Gamma radiation) and non-ionizing (e.g., electromagnetic fields) radiation included adverse pregnancy outcomes, birth defects, and malignancies in the offspring. Heavy physical workloads, including heavy lifting, prolonged standing/walking, and strenuous manual jobs, were associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Whole-body vibration (2 articles) and noise (1 article) are also linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Conclusions: Although there is only limited epidemiological evidence with mixed results, preventive interventions are suggested for precautious protection of reproductive health of both women and men, and more evidence is needed to conclude