Household chemicals have long been considered major contributors to the decline in fertility rates, but the association between the two is far from clear. In this article, we are going to look at key chemicals and some of their potential effects on fertility. 

Fertility can be affected by environmental toxins, specifically those that are absorbed through the skin and arrive in the body before being eliminated. These chemicals may get deposited in your body, interfering with hormonal signals as they are changed. The end result could be a loss of fertility.

About Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC)

Endocrine disruptors are synthetic chemicals that can impact the hormonal system by mimicking or blocking the actions of naturally occurring hormones. The damaging effects they have on our bodies have been proven time and time again, and they have now come under the scanner. Their detrimental effects on health, mood, cognition, and fertility have made them a smart enemy to research and develop a strategy against.

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the endocrine system, which is responsible for controlling hormone levels in the body. Endocrine disruptors are found in plastics, pesticides, flame retardants, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Studies have shown that these chemicals can lead to infertility in men and women. Researchers at the University of California found that even small amounts of endocrine disruptors can impact the reproductive systems of males and females.

List of some Household Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals impacting Fertility

BISPHENOL A(BPA)

Bisphenol A is a synthetic chemical used in the production of plastics and resins. Bisphenol A is commonly found in a wide range of consumer products, including:

• Water bottles
• Food packaging
• Dental sealants
• Cash register receipts
• Flame retardants
• Thermal Papers
• Computers
• Baby feeding bottles and formula cans
• Baby Teethers etc.

Bisphenol A is an endocrine disruptor and has been linked to adverse health effects in laboratory animals. These effects include reproductive abnormalities, altered brain development, changes in behavior, and changes in mammary gland development.

TRICLOSAN

Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent, introduced in 1972 as a surgical scrub in hospitals. Used in a variety of consumer products, including cosmetics, soaps, and deodorants. It can penetrate into the skin and interfere with hormones. It has been banned in several countries because of its endocrine-disrupting effects on the body.

It is also used in antibacterial hand soaps, toothpastes, and other products:

• Mouthwash
• Deodorants
• Haircare products
• Detergents etc

TRICLOCARBAN

An anti-bacterial active ingredient used as a preservative in a wide range of personal care products; can interfere with hormones. It has been linked to lower levels of thyroid hormone and testosterone. At least 40% of soaps contain Triclosan and Triclocarban.

Common Products are soaps, deodorants, detergents, roll-on, shampoos, shaving creams, cleansing lotions, and wipes.

PHTHALATES

Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are commonly used in the production of plastics. Some phthalates can act as endocrine disruptors, which can disrupt the normal functioning of the reproductive system. The impact of phthalates on fertility is still not well known, but it is believed that phthalates can reduce sperm count and motility. Exposing during pregnancy is linked to preterm birth and embryotoxicity

Some common products are:

• Conveyer Belts
• Jar lids
• Tubing
• Gloves
• PVC 
• Wire and Cables
• Automotive plastics and lubricating oils
• Raincoats
• Lotions
• Plastic Toys etc.

PARABENS

Parabens are a group of chemicals used as preservatives in cosmetics, foods, and pharmaceuticals. They are commonly used in the cosmetic industry because they are effective preservatives and can be used to prevent the growth of bacteria.

STYRENE

Styrene is a chemical that is used to make plastic. Styrene can be found in the form of plastic bottles, cups, toys, medical devices, food containers, carpets and other products. Styrene can enter the body through inhalation or ingestion. Linked to increased frequency of spontaneous abortions and decreased frequency of births.