Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): How Toxins Impact Hormones, Fertility, and Vaginal Health
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What Are Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals?
As people with periods, we know that hormonal ebbs and flows are normal and natural. But our hormones can be thrown out of balance from any change to our internal and external environments.
While we all know physical and mental stress can disrupt our hormone levels, there are other, extremely common, yet no less harmful hormone disrupting chemicals we come in contact with every single day that affect our periods, inflammation, moods, sleep, and fertility. And you might not even realize it. In fact, it’s posited that around 95 percent of us have endocrine disrupting chemicals accumulated in our bodies. According to a growing number of research studies, those who struggle to conceive have higher levels of EDCs, indicating that the higher the levels of toxin disrupting chemicals, the lower the chance of becoming pregnant, even among couples who use assisted reproductive technologies, like IVF
These toxins, or endocrine disrupting chemicals aka EDCs are ubiquitous in our environments, found in everything from inside our shampoo bottle to the lining of canned food. See, our external environment is full of foreign chemicals that are ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, and while chemicals themselves aren't inherently bad, there are some that can wreak havoc on our hormones.
‘Toxins are everywhere nowadays,” functional nutritionist Torie Borrelli Hall (she/her) explains. “This is something not a lot of people are talking about. However, they are a huge contributor to the high rates of infertility and are damaging to our overall health.”
How EDCs Affect Hormones and Fertility
Endocrine disrupting chemicals mimic or interfere with natural hormones like estrogen and progesterone. This can cause your body to:
- Overproduce or underproduce hormones
- Disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles
- Increase inflammation and pelvic pain
- Affect fertility and reproductive health
Research suggests that up to 95% of people have measurable levels of EDCs in their bodies, and higher exposure has been linked to
- Infertility and reduced IVF success rates
- Early menopause
- Hormonal imbalances
- Certain cancers
If you’ve experienced chronic vaginal irritation, recurring infections, or unexplained hormone symptoms, environmental toxins may be part of the picture.
Common Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals to Avoid
These hormone-disrupting toxins are often hidden in everyday products:
- BPA (Bisphenol A) – found in plastics and food linings
- Phthalates – used in synthetic fragrance
- Parabens – preservatives in skincare and cosmetics
- Sulfates – harsh cleansing agents
- Glyphosate – common pesticide in non-organic foods
- Heavy metals – found in polluted environments and products
- Flame retardants – in furniture and textiles
- Fluoride & chlorine byproducts – in municipal water
Even products labeled “clean” can contain hidden contaminants from manufacturing processes.
Why Clean, Organic Intimate Care Matters
The vulva and vaginal area are highly absorbent, making ingredient quality especially important.
At Momotaro Apotheca, we formulate with:
- Certified organic ingredients
- No parabens, sulfates, or phthalates
- No artificial fragrance or fillers
- Botanicals designed to support the vaginal microbiome
This means you can support your body without adding to your toxic load.
How to Reduce Exposure to Hormone-Disrupting Toxins
You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Small, consistent changes can significantly reduce your exposure.
1. Choose Organic Foods When Possible: Reduce exposure to pesticides like glyphosate by shopping organic and local when you can.
2. Avoid Synthetic Fragrance: Fragrance is often a hidden source of phthalates. Opt for fragrance-free or naturally scented products.
3. Upgrade Your Hydration: Drink filtered or spring water and avoid plastic bottles to limit BPA exposure.
4. Swap Plastic for Glass or Stainless Steel: Plastic containers can leach chemicals into food, especially when heated.
5. Read Ingredient Labels Carefully: Look for products free from parabens, sulfates, and unnecessary additives.
6. Support Detox Through Movement: Sweating through exercise or sauna use can help your body eliminate toxins.
Post-Workout Vaginal Care (Without Irritation)
Sweat buildup can disrupt your skin and vaginal microbiome, leading to irritation or breakouts.
If you can’t shower right away:
- Gently wipe away sweat
- Use a balancing spray like a hydrosol to refresh skin
- Wear breathable fabrics
Explore Our Guide: How To Use Hydrosol
Nourish Skin Without Hormone Disruptors
Many body oils and moisturizers contain synthetic additives that can irritate sensitive skin. Instead, look for oils rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, naturally derived botanicals. These support skin barrier health without disrupting hormones.
Lifestyle Habits That Support Hormone Balance
Reducing toxin exposure is just one piece of the puzzle. Support your body with: consistent sleep (6–8 hours), regular movement, stress management (walking, journaling, creative outlets), limiting alcohol and excess sugar. Remember: progress over perfection. Small shifts compound over time.
Additional Ways to Reduce EDC Exposure
- Avoid processed and packaged foods
- Choose pasture-raised and wild-caught proteins
- Limit alcohol and sugar (which can disrupt gut and vaginal flora)
- Avoid industrial seed oils; opt for olive oil or coconut oil
- Reduce screen time and stress exposure
- Skip paper receipts (they often contain BPA)
The Bottom Line: Protecting Your Hormones Starts Daily
Endocrine disrupting chemicals are unavoidable, but your daily habits matter.
By choosing clean products, supporting your body’s natural detox systems, and prioritizing vaginal and hormonal health, you can reduce your toxic load and feel more balanced.
Whether you’re navigating fertility, perimenopause, or everyday irritation, understanding your environment is a powerful first step.
Our Fertility Group by New York based Yinova Fertility Center offers a personalized opportunity for you to explore your fertility process with a supportive community. You’ll have the chance to share, receive individual care, and learn new ways to enhance your fertility health.
Fertility Out Loud provides resources and guidance to help you take realistic action and find a fertility specialist in your area.
YourFertility.Orgis an Australia based resource dedicated to helping you and your partner understand how to to improve your chance of having a baby
Environmental Working Group offers easy to understand consumer guides to help you navigate the grocery store and drugstore aisles.
SkinSafe is your “GPS for sensitive skin.” You can search products by brand, individual ingredients, and allergen-free markers so that you can make smarter decisions with your skin, body, and hair care.
PLASTICS, EDCs & HEALTH is a downloadable PDF guide educating the public and policymakers alike on endocrine disrupting chemicals and plastics
Related Reading
How Stress Affects Sexual Health & Vaginal Microbiome
The Bitter Combo of Sugar & Stress
How Each Phase of The Menstrual Cycle Affects Immunity
6 Reasons You Have A Dry Vagina Plus How to Deal
