Trace Elements and Female Reproductive Health: Insights Into Essential and Toxic Metals – A Literature Review

Introduction and Purpose This literature review explores the physiological and pathophysiological impact of selected trace elements—zinc, selenium, magnesium, cadmium, and lead—on women’s reproductive health. These elements, while present in minute quantities, play critical roles in endocrine regulation, oocyte maturation, embryo development, and gestational outcomes. The aim of this paper is to consolidate and evaluate recent evidence from clinical trials, meta-analyses, and mechanistic studies to understand the significance of these elements in reproductive physiology and pathology. State of Knowledge Zinc, selenium, and magnesium are essential micronutrients involved in enzymatic activity, mitochondrial stability, redox homeostasis, and hormonal balance, contributing positively to oocyte quality, fertilization, and pregnancy maintenance. Conversely, cadmium and lead are toxic heavy metals that bioaccumulate in reproductive tissues, exerting their detrimental effects via oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, and DNA damage. Emerging data highlight their contribution to infertility, miscarriage, preterm birth, and gynecological malignancies. Methods This review synthesizes data from peer-reviewed journal articles retrieved from databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. Selected literature includes randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, cohort studies, and experimental models published primarily between 2015 and 2025. Keywords included such as "zinc fertility," "selenium pregnancy," "magnesium PMS," "cadmium infertility," and "lead miscarriage." Conclusions Optimal reproductive health in women is dependent on the adequate intake and balanced metabolism of trace elements. Deficiency or excess—whether nutritional or environmental—can impair fertility and gestational success. Clinical awareness, public health strategies, and personalized supplementation protocols are essential to mitigate reproductive risks and enhance outcomes for women of reproductive age.