The term endocrine disruptor is something you hear a lot when it comes to conception. Do you know what it means and what they are? Below I will explain what this term means and discuss 4 types of endocrine disruptors
What are Endocrine Disruptors?
The term endocrine disruptors refers to environmental toxins found in everyday products that can disrupt our endocrine system by mimicking or blocking normal processes resulting in hormonal imbalances including over or under production of hormones. When it comes to reproduction this may impair menstrual cycle length, affect ovulation, decrease egg & sperm quality lead to early menopause or infertility.
Our endocrine system consists of many glands which produce hormones and release them into the bloodstream. These glands include (but are not limited to) the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, the thyroid, the ovaries and the testes. The hormones released by the glands carry information and messages around the body to help control growth, metabolism, reproduction and mood.
When thinking about conception the ovaries and testes are the obvious endocrine glands that are of importance. The ovaries make eggs and secrete oestrogen and progesterone, these are vital for regular menstruation and pregnancy. The testes produce androgens and testosterone which play a role in sperm production. The pituitary gland and the thyroid also play a critical role in reproductive health and conception.
4 types of Endocrine Disruptors
Now you might think that you are safe from endocrine disruptors as you are not exposed to pesticides or heavy metals (which are of course endocrine disruptors) but unfortunately there are many endocrine disruptors found in everyday items we are exposed to consistently. Let me tell you about 4 endocrine disruptors,
- Phthalates (pronounced THAL-eights) – Phthalates are used to make plastic more flexible and durable and can be found in plastic packaging and containers, household products like shower curtains, washing up gloves, flooring and vinyl furnishings. Phthalates are also used to act as stabilisers and solvents in fragrances. These fragrances are found in cosmetics, nail polish, perfumes, shampoos, laundry detergents and cleaning products. Phthalates are not permanently bound to the products they are found in and over time they migrate out into the air.
- Bisphenols- Bisphenols are used to make plastic and epoxy resin materials, there are many different types but the most well-known is Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA can be found in plastic food storage containers, take away containers, plastic cooking utensils, plastic drink bottles, paint, furnishings, flooring and even the coating on thermal paper eftpos receipts. Epoxy resins are used to coat the inside of cans to increase shelf life, you will find them in cans of food, soft drink and alcohol.
- Parabens- Parabens are chemicals used to preserve food, pharmaceuticals and beauty and personal hygiene products. They prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi and extend product shelf life. They can be found in beer and soft drinks, sauces and syrups, shampoo, cosmetics, cleaning products and perfumes. Parabens mimic estrogen, estrogen plays an important role in regulating the menstrual cycle.
- Per and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)- These synthetic chemicals are long lasting and break down very slowly. They are used for grease and water repelling properties. You will find them in your non-stick cooking pans, stain protected and waterproof fabrics such as raincoats and umbrellas and even waterproof eye mascara and dental floss.
Now that you know about 4 types of endocrine disruptors can you see how easily we are exposed to them in our everyday life? The next obvious question is how can you reduce or avoid your exposure to them. I will post another blog next week outlining some lifestyle switches you can make to reduce your exposure.
In the meantime have a think about the plastics, pans and utensils you are using when it comes to food preparation, storage, and reheating, can you swap any of these plastics out for glass? Can you stop drinking from plastic drink bottles and buy a re-useable stainless steel or glass bottle?. You could take a closer look at the ingredients list of your personal care and cleaning products to see if they contain parabens. Think about whether you can easily remove any of these products from your daily life.
If you would like to discuss any of this information further please reach out to us at Sydney Natural Fertility. We pride ourselves on equipping you with information to help create healthy eggs and sperm to aid in conception.
References
CHEM Trust (2024). EDCS: The Facts. The endocrine system and endocrine disruptors.
Trackbacks/Pingbacks