Can Influence Reproduction Health, Beware Of Climate Change And Natural Damage

Illustrtion in the midst of weather changes (Unsplash)

JAKARTA - Midwives who are members of the Health Institute Budi Kemuliaan, Ema Sismadi, explained that climate change and natural damage caused by humans can affect reproductive health, both men and women.

"The impact of extreme weather, natural disasters, outbreaks, erosion of infrastructure, food safety, and drought increases the incidence of infection and fertility problems. Of all the factors mentioned, it affects sexual and reproductive health," Ema said as quoted by ANTARA, Saturday, November 9, 2024.

Ema explained climate change which resulted in an increase in the earth's temperature affecting fertility levels. He said that a temperature increase of one degree could affect the fertility rate of the ovum cells (cells of eggs) and gametes produced by the reproductive organs.

In addition, natural damage due to pollutants and industrial waste also causes the risk of human reproductive health problems if exposed to pollutants continuously.

"In fact, there is one outbreak study in Japan, from industrial factory waste polluted with cadmium metals, it is suspected that it causes health disorders in adolescents and pregnant women," he said.

Not only direct impacts, climate change and natural damage are also indirect causes of reproductive health problems.

Unhealthy environmental conditions cause nutritional needs to be not met, mental health disorders, and hamper access to health services that also affect reproductive health and fertility levels.

"There is a higher risk of IMS (sexually transmitted infection) disease, due to disasters, difficulties in access, other violence as a result of the impact of climate change, then the increasing need for contraceptives that are not met," Ema added.

Therefore, according to him, climate change is a serious challenge that requires anticipation in the global sphere. Environmental education is also considered important in increasing awareness and shaping sustainable behavior.

"Young people must be prepared to become agents of change or agents of change that are proactive in protecting the environment. Then, we can make collective efforts, for example at school," said Ema.