7 Everyday Toxins That Can Disrupt Your Hormones and Affect Fertility: Toxins to avoid when trying to conceive

When you’re trying to conceive, you’re probably already paying attention to your diet, your supplements and your stress levels - but what about your environment?

Sadly, many everyday products contain chemicals that can quietly disrupt your hormones, affect ovulation and even lower egg or sperm quality. When you’re working so hard to support your fertility, this hidden exposure can feel frustrating - but the good news is that once you know what to look for, you can make small, simple swaps that make a big difference.

As a fertility acupuncturist, I help women understand how their hormones, environment, and lifestyle all interact to support conception - whether naturally or through IVF. One area I often discuss in clinic is environmental toxins, because they can have a powerful impact on hormone balance and reproductive health.

Here are 7 common toxins to look out for when you’re trying to protect your fertility.

1️⃣ BPA – Plastics, Food Packaging, Tinned Foods & Receipts

BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical often found in plastic bottles, food containers and the linings of tins and cans. It can also be absorbed through handling receipts.

Research shows that BPA acts as an endocrine disruptor, meaning it mimics oestrogen in the body. This can interfere with normal hormonal function, ovulation and egg quality.

✅ Simple swap: Choose glass or stainless-steel food containers, buy BPA-free tins, and say no to receipts where possible.

2️⃣ Phthalates – Fragrance, Perfumes, Candles & Cleaning Products

Phthalates are often added to fragrances to help the scent last longer - but they’re also known hormone disruptors. They can interfere with the body’s natural oestrogen and testosterone levels, impacting both female fertility and sperm quality.

✅ Simple swap: Choose fragrance-free or naturally scented products made with essential oils. Check labels for “phthalate-free.”

3️⃣ Parabens – Skincare, Cosmetics & Toiletries

Parabens are preservatives used in many skincare and cosmetic products. Like BPA, they can act as weak oestrogens in the body, which may contribute to hormonal imbalance.

✅ Simple swap: Look for natural, paraben-free skincare brands - these are becoming much more widely available now.

4️⃣ Pesticides – Especially Non-Organic Dirty Dozen Produce

Pesticides can act as endocrine disruptors and have been linked to lower fertility in both men and women. The Dirty Dozen (as listed by the Environmental Working Group) are the fruits and vegetables most likely to contain pesticide residues.

✅ Simple swap: Choose organic for these items where possible, or wash and peel them thoroughly to reduce exposure.

5️⃣ PFAS – Non-Stick Cookware & Food Packaging

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are sometimes called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily. They’re used in non-stick cookware, food packaging and even waterproof clothing.

Studies suggest that PFAS exposure can impact ovarian function, egg quality and menstrual cycle regulation.

✅ Simple swap: Switch to stainless steel or cast-iron pans and avoid fast-food packaging when possible.

6️⃣ Triclosan – Antibacterial Soaps, Toothpaste & Deodorants

Triclosan is an antibacterial chemical that can affect thyroid function and hormonal balance. While it’s been phased out of many products, it can still appear in some older formulas.

✅ Simple swap: Choose simple, natural soaps and toothpastes that don’t list “triclosan” on the label.

7️⃣ Mercury – Certain Fish & Older Dental Fillings

Mercury exposure can come from eating certain fish (like tuna or swordfish) or from old amalgam dental fillings. High mercury levels can affect fertility by disrupting hormone communication and egg quality.

✅ Simple swap: Choose low-mercury fish like salmon, sardines, and trout. If you have older fillings, speak to your dentist about safe removal.

Don’t Feel Overwhelmed

You don’t need to make all these changes at once. Even one or two simple swaps can reduce your toxic load and support your hormone health — which is a wonderful step forward when you’re trying for a baby.

Small, consistent actions build up over time and can help create a more fertile environment in your body.

If you’d like a clear, easy-to-follow guide with all my favourite toxin-free swaps and product recommendations, I’ve put together a free resource:

💚 Download my full TTC Toxin Guide — it includes the best fertility-safe products and simple changes that make the biggest difference. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1a0jX8NJcDgQTBdYDdg0f2OedidReNcqj/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=101948376439299841000&rtpof=true&sd=true

Acupuncture and TCM work by addressing the root cause, not just the symptoms — helping your body find its rhythm again.

💛 If you’d like to learn how we can support your PCOS naturally, I’ve created a free resource to help you begin: “5 Things You Can Do This Month to Boost Your Fertility Naturally.” Click here to download your free guide DOWNLOAD HERE

For personalised women’s health and fertility support, visit stacydavisacupuncture.co.uk or connect on Instagram @stacydavisacupuncture.