The article is part of a series of publications discussing prevalence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment. The aim of this study is to describe the problem of the presence of hormonal tablets ingredient 17α-ethinylestradiol and its three natural analogues in wastewater and the environment. Basic information on the substances in question and the concentrations in which these compounds can negatively affect aquatic organisms are provided. In the paper, the authors review the literature data on the presence of estrogenic hormones in wastewater, surface water and groundwater. Penetration through aquifers can lead to accumulation of these compounds in the sediments, which is reflected in the literature.

The article is part of a series of publications discussing prevalence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment. The aim of this study is to describe the problem of the presence of hormonal tablets ingredient 17α-ethinylestradiol and its three natural analogues in wastewater and the environment. Basic information on the substances in question and the concentrations in which these compounds can negatively affect aquatic organisms are provided. In the paper, the authors review the literature data on the presence of estrogenic hormones in wastewater, surface water and groundwater. Penetration through aquifers can lead to accumulation of these compounds in the sediments, which is reflected in the literature.