A new study from the University of Arizona has found that women firefighters with PTSD or anxiety may face challenges with fertility. Researchers discovered that those with PTSD had significantly lower levels of anti-Müllerian hormone, a key marker of ovarian reserve, while women with anxiety also showed reduced levels. This hormone reflects the number of healthy eggs a woman has, making it an important indicator of reproductive health.
Michelle Valenti, a doctoral student in epidemiology and the study’s lead author, explained,
“These findings really underline how mental health issues can impact overall well-being, especially reproductive health.”
Firefighters often deal with intense stress, trauma, and chemical exposures, making them more vulnerable to PTSD than the general population. Previous studies had shown that women firefighters tend to have lower anti-Müllerian hormone levels, but the reason wasn’t clear until now. This research suggests that mental health struggles may play a significant role.
Capt. Caitlin St. Clair from the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority highlighted the importance of the findings, saying, “This gives fire departments the scientific backing to introduce programs that help reduce stress and support the well-being of our women firefighters.”
The study is part of the larger Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study, specifically its Women Firefighter Study, which focuses on identifying the causes of stress, cancer, and reproductive health issues among women in the fire service. Valenti emphasized the collaborative effort behind the research, adding,
“This study wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support from our fire service partners who are dedicated to improving the health of women firefighters.”
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