The health of our mouth is an important component of our overall health. While it might not be the first thought to link the mouth to the rest of the body, it is an undeniable connection. The health of your mouth is intricately linked to a range of health issues, including Alzheimer’s, heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. But did you know that oral care and infertility are connected?

Poor oral hygiene is known to cause inflammation, gum disease (periodontitis), bacteria overload, and an unbalanced oral microbiome. These issues have far-reaching effects on the body, including reproductive health. These issues aren’t specific to women only; men’s reproductive health is also impacted. 

Thankfully, there are easy ways to care for your mouth and give yourself the best chance when trying to conceive. The good news is that these simple changes will also benefit you during and after your pregnancy too!

The Relationship Between Oral Health and Reproductive Health

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 17% of the world’s adult population is affected by infertility in 2023. That means 1 in 6 people has trouble conceiving. Although there are many factors that can contribute to infertility, oral health is an important component in maintaining reproductive health.

Multiple studies have confirmed the correlation between reproductive health and our mouths. Our fertility and oral health are more intertwined than we might realize.  

How Does Oral Health Impact Fertility?

Poor oral health can impact both men’s and women’s reproductive health. Women with periodontal disease often find it takes longer to conceive. Or they may develop other conditions that make getting pregnant more challenging. Men can be impacted by slow or low sperm counts.

One reason for this connection could be inflammation. Not properly caring for our mouths can lead to inflammation in our gums, which can cause inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation has been linked to hormone imbalances and other reproductive health problems.

Another reason could be bacteria and bacterial infections present in the mouth. These could travel through the body and impact other areas, leading to reproductive challenges. This seems to be a big component for the quality of sperm.

Effects on Women’s Fertility

Periodontitis (or gum disease) seems to play a role in fertility for women. For women with this condition, it often takes longer to conceive. A 2012 study found it took women with periodontitis two months longer to conceive than those without it. 

This abstract reviewed a number of studies and showed that the bacteria responsible for gum disease can slow the reproductive functions in women, both trying to get pregnant naturally as well as with IVF. A 2013 study of women undergoing treatments shows that IVF might also be impacted by gum health. The result was a longer timeline and more treatments for those with poor gum health.  

Another study in 2014 of women trying to conceive showed that periodontal disease was associated with a lower chance of getting pregnant. And yet another study in 2017 looked at the presence of gingivitis in women who were trying to conceive. They found the bacteria was higher in those who hadn’t yet conceived 12 months later, showing a correlation.

In addition, gum disease can increase a woman’s risk of other reproductive health issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and bacterial vaginosis. All of these conditions can lead to problems with getting pregnant as well. 

Another study found a correlation between tooth loss and infertility. Researchers found that women with fewer teeth were more likely to have difficulty getting pregnant compared to those with a full set of teeth. This could be due to the impact of tooth loss on nutrient absorption and inflammation.

Impacts on Men’s Fertility

Men’s fertility seems to be impacted by poor oral health in several ways, but it mainly affects the sperm. These findings also relate to men who are trying to conceive naturally (with their partner) and through IVF.

Poor oral health can have an impact on sperm health and lead to male infertility by affecting sperm movement. A 2014 study found that poor oral health is related to low sperm count. Another study found that E. coli bacteria entering through a tooth that’s had pulpal necrosis (from a cavity or cracked tooth) can lead to low sperm mobility.

As with women, periodontal disease can also impact men’s fertility. A 2021 study shows that gum disease can impact sperm mobility and quality in men with gum disease.

In addition, The American Journal of Men’s Health found a link between erectile dysfunction and periodontal disease after reviewing nine studies on the topic. This is another aspect of reproductive health for men related to oral health.

How Conventional Oral Care Products Are Harmful to Fertility

Unfortunately, conventional oral care products are not the healthiest or cleanest products for our bodies. Many contain chemicals such as BPA and phthalate. These chemicals have been linked to hormonal imbalances and have potential impacts on fertility. It's important to be mindful of the ingredients in the products you use and opt for natural, safer options whenever possible.

BPA

You’ve probably heard about BPA in food and beverage containers, but it’s also in dental sealants. It has been associated with hormonal imbalances and may contribute to PCOS. Additionally, a study found that women with higher levels of BPA in their urine had more difficulty getting pregnant. 

Phthalates

These chemicals are often used to make plastics more flexible and can be found in some toothbrushes and floss. They’ve been linked to hormone disruption and potential impacts on sperm health. Choosing phthalate-free oral care products can help minimize exposure.

Triclosan

This chemical has been associated with hormonal imbalances and may contribute to lower sperm counts. It’s also toxic to the environment and linked to antibiotic resistance. It's found in some kinds of toothpaste and mouthwashes. 

Fluoride

Fluoride is in most conventional toothpaste and some dental floss brands. It’s often given as a treatment at the dentist’s office and added to our drinking water. Excessive exposure to fluoride has been linked to potential impacts on fertility and sperm quality. It’s toxic in large doses and can negatively impact thyroid function. In addition, some studies have found that exposure to fluoride during pregnancy may lead to lower IQ levels in children.

SLS

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a foaming agent commonly used in toothpaste and mouthwash. It has been linked to hormonal imbalances and may contribute to male infertility by affecting sperm quality. It’s also one of the common ingredients in oral care products that causes an allergic reaction in some individuals.

Choose Natural Oral Care Products for Better Oral Health

It's essential to be mindful of the ingredients in your oral care products and choose safer options when possible. Good oral hygiene habits and reduced exposure to harmful chemicals support your reproductive health.

The good news is there’s a larger selection of natural and organic oral care products available on the market now than there have been in the past. Look for products that are free of harmful chemicals, fragrances, dyes, and artificial sweeteners. 

Wellnesse Offers Effective Natural Oral Care Products

Our line of natural oral care products are free from harmful chemicals. From toothpaste to mouthwash and toothbrushes and floss, we’ve got your whole mouth covered! All of our products are not only effective but also safe for both your oral health and reproductive health.

We make each product with only natural ingredients like micro-hydroxyapatite, aloe vera, and essential oils. All of our products are free from SLS, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners. Our toothpaste is fluoride-free. 

In addition to offering natural oral care products, we also are committed to the environment and sustainability. All of our packaging is eco-friendly and recyclable. Our toothpaste tubes are made of 100% compostable sugarcane bioplastic. Our mouthwash and Oral Probiotic bottles are made from highly recyclable glass. So, you aren’t getting any of the harmful chemicals present in traditional packaging either.

Choosing natural oral care products is a great way to support your oral health and fertility. Wellnesse offers a full array of products made with natural and organic ingredients to keep you and your family healthy and thriving.