What are Hormone Disruptors & How do they Affect Health?
By Chloe Dymond Young - BANT Registered Nutritional Therapist, IBCLC and ex-Midwife (17 years).
Hormone Disruptors: What They Are, How They Affect Fertility & Pregnancy, and How to Avoid Them:
Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers - and when they’re out of balance, everything from ovulation and sperm quality to embryo development and pregnancy outcomes can be affected. Unfortunately, we are surrounded by chemicals in food, packaging, water, cosmetics, and cleaning products that can disrupt hormonal function - often without us even realising it.
In this blog, I explore what hormone disruptors (also called endocrine-disrupting chemicals or EDCs) are, how they impact fertility and pregnancy, what the research says, and simple ways to reduce exposure at home and through diet.
What Are Hormone Disruptors?
Hormone disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the body’s endocrine (hormonal) system. They may mimic, block, or alter hormone production and function - especially oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid hormones - all essential for reproductive health.
How Do Hormone Disruptors Affect Fertility and Pregnancy?
In Women:
Impaired ovulation
Disruption of menstrual cycles
Increased risk of miscarriage
Hormonal imbalances (estrogen dominance, low progesterone)
Endometriosis and PCOS may be worsened by EDC exposure
In Men:
Reduced sperm count and motility
Altered testosterone levels
Poor semen quality
During Pregnancy:
Placental dysfunction
Foetal development issues
Increased risk of gestational diabetes or low birth weight
Long-term epigenetic changes (developmental origins of disease)
What Does the Research Say?
BPA (Bisphenol A): Found in plastics and receipts, BPA mimics oestrogen and has been linked to reduced egg quality, altered embryo development, and miscarriage. One study in Fertility & Sterility (2010) showed higher urinary BPA levels were associated with poorer IVF outcomes.
Phthalates: Used in plasticisers, personal care products, and fragrances, phthalates have been associated with reduced ovarian reserve, endometriosis, and poorer sperm quality (Human Reproduction, 2014).
PFAS (Forever Chemicals): Present in non-stick pans, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. Research shows PFAS may reduce fertility, affect thyroid function, and disrupt fetal growth.
Parabens: Common in cosmetics and toiletries. These can act as weak estrogens and have been detected in the placenta and breast tissue.
Pesticides: Linked to lower fertility rates and increased risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Organic food consumption is associated with lower pesticide exposure (JAMA Internal Medicine, 2018).
The First 1,000 Days: Why Reducing Exposure Matters Early
The first 1,000 days - from conception to a child’s second birthday are a critical window for development. Exposure to EDCs during this time can cause epigenetic changes, potentially influencing a child's metabolic health, immune system, and reproductive function for life.
How to Reduce Hormone Disruptor Exposure
Food & Kitchen
Avoid plastic containers, especially when heating food. Use glass, ceramic, or stainless steel.
Don’t microwave food in plastic or cover it with cling film.
Choose organic produce when possible to reduce pesticide exposure (especially the EWG’s “Dirty Dozen”).
Filter tap water with a high-quality filter (e.g., activated carbon or reverse osmosis).
Avoid tinned foods with BPA linings.
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Choose paraben-free and phthalate-free shampoos, moisturisers, and makeup (read my blog on natural products).
Avoid heavily fragranced products - “fragrance” can hide many EDCs.
Use natural deodorants, soaps, and body care products.
Cleaning & Household
Swap out conventional cleaners for natural alternatives like vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, and essential oils.
Avoid air fresheners, plug-ins, and heavily scented candles.
Look for eco-friendly certifications (e.g., EWG Verified, Soil Association, EcoCert).
For Preconception and Pregnancy
Check supplement quality - avoid unnecessary fillers, titanium dioxide, or artificial colours.
Choose organic cotton pads and tampons (free of dioxins and pesticide residue).
Be mindful of non-stick cookware - opt for stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic.
Finally:
Hormone disruptors are a silent yet powerful factor influencing fertility, conception, and baby development. While it’s impossible to eliminate all exposures, small changes can make a significant difference. Start by reducing plastic use, eating whole organic foods when possible, and being label-savvy with personal care and household products.
By reducing hormone disruptors in your environment, you're not only protecting your fertility but also supporting the future health of your child - especially during the critical first 1,000 days of life.
If you’d like help preparing for pregnancy, my consultations include personalised nutrition, supplement and lifestyle plans -BOOK A FREE DISCOVERY CALL to find out if I can help you.
