Environmental Toxins and Fertility: What You Need to Know

In our modern environment, we are exposed to a wide range of chemicals in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the products we use every day. Some of these chemicals, known as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), can affect the delicate hormonal balance that governs reproductive health. This information sheet explains what EDCs are, where they’re found, and practical ways you can reduce your exposure to protect your fertility and overall wellbeing.

What are Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)?

EDCs are substances that can interfere with the normal functioning of hormones in the body. They are found in the air, soil, water, and a wide range of everyday items including plastics, personal care products, food packaging, and household chemicals. These chemicals may mimic or block natural hormones such as oestrogen or testosterone, leading to disruptions in reproductive function for both men and women.

How Can EDCs Affect Fertility?

Research suggests that EDCs may:

• Lower egg and sperm quality
• Disrupt menstrual cycles
• Damage sperm DNA
• Increase the time it takes to conceive
• Increase the risk of miscarriage
• Contribute to earlier menopause

Even low levels of exposure, especially when combined from multiple sources, can have an impact. EDCs have been found in 95% of people tested, and are often detected at higher levels in individuals experiencing fertility difficulties.

Common EDCs and Where They Are Found

• Bisphenols (BPA/BPS/BPF): Found in plastics, can linings, and glossy receipts
• Phthalates: Found in food packaging, medical tubing, toys, and cosmetics
• Parabens: Used in cosmetics, shampoos, and antibacterial products
• Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): Found in flame retardants and industrial waste
• Pesticides and Herbicides: Found on non-organic produce and garden products
• Heavy Metals (e.g. lead, mercury): Found in polluted air, contaminated water, and some household items

Practical Steps to Reduce Exposure

You can’t eliminate all EDC exposure, but you can reduce it significantly by making some everyday changes:

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and choose local or organic produce where possible to reduce pesticide exposure.
• Limit processed, canned, and pre-packaged foods. Instead, cook fresh meals using whole ingredients and store leftovers in glass or stainless steel containers.
• Don’t heat food in soft plastic containers or those covered in cling wrap. Use ceramic or glass containers and cover food with a ceramic plate or paper towel instead.
• Avoid drinking from soft plastic bottles. Choose stainless steel or glass water bottles.
• Choose cosmetics and personal care products that are labelled ‘paraben-free’ and fragrance-free. Look for products with fewer ingredients or those certified organic.
• Avoid handling receipts with a glossy finish (thermal paper). If needed, ask for an emailed receipt instead.
• Open windows regularly to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce indoor chemical build-up.
• Choose low-tox or ‘green’ cleaning products. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, strong glues, and air fresheners. Vinegar and bicarbonate soda are effective alternatives for many household cleaning tasks.
• Avoid garden pesticides and weed killers. Use natural methods such as mulch, hand-pulling weeds, or non-toxic pest deterrents.
• Reduce intake of oily fish such as tuna and salmon to limit intake of fat-soluble chemicals and heavy metals. Choose low-mercury alternatives like sardines or white fish.