New findings from Tel Aviv University in Israel suggest that controlled sun exposure may influence fertility indicators in women during their 30s and 40s. The research indicates that ultraviolet rays from sunlight can slow the rate at which the body’s egg supply declines, a discovery published in the journal Steroids. The study adds to a growing conversation about how environmental factors intersect with reproductive health, highlighting that sunlight might play a role in ovarian aging when considered within safe limits and as part of a broader lifestyle approach.
Involving 2,235 Israeli women, the study monitored how anti-Müllerian hormone AMH, a key biomarker of ovarian reserve, responded to varying levels of solar ultraviolet radiation across seasons. Researchers observed that higher ultraviolet exposure correlated with increased AMH secretion in the ovaries during the summer months. Since AMH levels reflect the remaining pool of eggs that could potentially be conceived, this finding points to a possible link between sun exposure and preserved ovarian function over time.
The most pronounced effect appeared among women aged 30 to 40, a demographic typically concerned with fertility planning and timing. The data suggest that moderate sun exposure could help maintain ovarian reserve more effectively in this age group, though the researchers emphasize that AMH is only one piece of the puzzle and does not guarantee pregnancy outcomes. While the correlation is notable, causality remains unproven, and individual responses can vary based on genetics, overall health, and lifestyle factors.
Experts caution that any sun exposure should be moderate and ordered with personal health considerations in mind. The study calls for further investigation to establish practical guidelines, such as optimal daily exposure durations and the balance between sun benefits and skin cancer risk. In the meantime, it is prudent to approach sun exposure as one potential component of fertility health rather than a standalone solution, and to consult healthcare professionals regarding personalized advice based on medical history and current guidelines. The research adds a new dimension to the ongoing discussion about environmental influences on reproductive aging and underscores the need for rigorous, long-term studies to clarify these relationships with precision.