Protecting Fertility and Pregnancy in a Modern World

Whilst factors like age, genetics and underlying medical conditions can influence fertility – which are beyond our control - there are many other lifestyle environmental factors that we can influence to optimise health for fertility and pregnancy.

We have seen over the years that fertility rates are declining with now 1 in 6 experiencing infertility. In 2023 the UK saw it’s lowest fertility rate since records began in 1938. Even male fertility in terms of sperm quality and count is also declining across the world.

When I first became pregnant, I remember how overwhelming it felt being responsible for another life. Not just about bringing them safely into the world, but their lifelong health, having learnt about fetal epigenetics whilst I was at university and more so since I specialised in prenatal nutrition. I now have two beautiful daughters, aged 3 and 5. Although, I’m not currently planning more children myself, I still find myself thinking about their futures — and whether they might one day want to become mothers too.

It might seem premature to think about my daughters’ fertility when they're so young, but having seen firsthand how heartbreaking fertility challenges can be, I feel strongly about doing what I can — however small — to protect and nurture their health for the future. Did you know that girls are born with all the eggs they will ever have? That means when we’re pregnant with a daughter, we’re not just influencing her — but potentially our future grandchildren too.

In this blog, I’ll be sharing evidence-based information about environmental toxins, how they may impact fertility and pregnancy, and most importantly — practical, simple tips you can take today.

What are Environmental Toxins and Endocrine Disruptors?

Environmental toxins include a wide range of chemicals we are exposed to through food, water, air, household products, and personal care items. A particular group of concern when it comes to fertility and pregnancy are endocrine disruptors. These are chemicals that can interfere with our hormone systems, mimicking or blocking hormones and affecting the body's normal hormonal production and functions.

Research has linked exposure to endocrine disruptors to reduced fertility in both men and women, pregnancy complications, and potential long-term health impacts on children.

Some of the most common endocrine disruptors you may have heard of include:

• Bisphenol A (BPA) — often found in plastics and canned food linings

• Phthalates — used to make plastics flexible, and found in many personal care products, toys, to make things waterproof. These can often been referred to as fragrance/parfum on labels

• PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) – sometimes called “forever chemicals” — found in non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, some cosmetics, and food packaging.

• Pesticides — chemical substances used in agriculture to reduce pests

• Parabens — preservatives used in cosmetics and skincare products

  
  

How Do They Affect Fertility and Pregnancy?

Although evidence is still emerging it does suggest that exposure to endocrine disruptors can:

• Lower egg quality and quantity

• Affect sperm health

• Disrupt menstrual cycles

• Increase the risk of miscarriage

• Impact the development of the baby

• Increase time to pregnancy

  
  

Research also shows that these exposures might alter gut microbiota, further influencing hormone health, immunity, and even the risk of chronic diseases in both mothers and their children. Women diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes have been found to have an imbalance of gut microbiota, - though whether this is a cause or effect is still unclear! Interestingly though, research also suggests that exposure to endocrine disruptors may increase the risk of gestational diabetes.

It's important to note that research around endocrine disruptors is not conclusive yet. However, given what we know so far — and the fact that it’s often easier to prevent than to reverse damage — many experts are recommending a precautionary approach, especially in those who are experiencing infertility or recurrent miscarriage.

Practical Tips to Reduce Exposure

I first started reducing my plastic use to support marine life  - having been a scuba diver since I was 13! Overtime there has been more evidence emerging and awareness on what impact plastics and other environmental toxins may be having on our own health too. I have started to slowly make changes in household for these very reasons and as I mentioned above - both my daughters future health too.

In this modern day I feel it is almost impossible to avoid all environmental toxins unless you go completely off grid! I tend to recommend making whatever changes that feel manageable for you and your lifestyle. I admit am no expert in this area, but I’ve spent time reading the evidence and making gradual changes that fit my lifestyle and values — and I’m sharing them here in case they help you too.

I have also linked some brands/products for your consideration. Some of these are affiliate links, which mean I earn a small thank you at no extra cost to you. I’d love to know your recommendations too so please do leave a comment!

Choose Safer Cooking & Cooking Storage Options

• Replace plastic containers and water bottles with glass or stainless steel wherever possible.

• Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers, even if they are labelled “microwave safe,” as heat can cause chemicals like BPA to leach into foods. Convenience foods are all around us and I’m not suggesting that these are off limits but when you do use them you can decant the contents into a glass or ceramic container.

• Swap non stick pans to stainless steel or iron cast pans.

  
  

Glass Tupperwares

Stainless Steel Pans (I have my mums hand me downs, which I have had for 15 years and they are still going strong)

Iron Cast Pans These types of pans can also help boost your iron intake, which can be particularly helpful during pregnancy

Water Bottles

Stainless steel or glass travel coffee cups

Eat Fresh, Minimally Processed Foods

• Focus on whole foods 80% of the time.

• Reduce ultra-processed foods as they often come wrapped in plastics containing BPA and phthalates.

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and if possible, choose organic options for the “Dirty Dozen” — the 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues.

Personal Care Products

I thank my good friend Jo who got me into natural beauty products. Personally for me it is has been a slow transition - as let’s be honest it can be costly to change all your products at once. But I am a big convert!

• Look for products labelled "phthalate-free," "paraben-free," or “fragrance-free” (fragrance is often a hidden source of phthalates)

• Avoiding heavily perfumes products

Content - I have personally bought sun lotion, make up removers, moistures and more from here

Upcircle - they do 15% off for NHS workers.

Miniml - we recently bought bulk refillable shampoo, conditioner and hand soap. Use the link for 15% off

Use essential oils instead of heavily perfumed products.

Choose Non-Toxic Household Products

• Opt for simple cleaning products like vinegar and baking soda, or brands that use less harsh chemicals

• Open windows regularly to ventilate indoor air

• Have plants in your home that help clear the air

Purdy & Figg – smells delicious! I have been using this for over 6 months now and I love it so much my home has never been cleaner

Ecoegg - we transitioned to ecoegg when my eldest had eczema as a baby

Miniml

It's important to remember that it’s impossible — and unnecessary — to eliminate all exposure. The goal is not perfection but progress. Stressing ourselves out trying to achieve perfection would likely do more harm than good. Even small changes may lower your body’s total burden of environmental toxins and support healthier hormone balance for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond.

If you’re already pregnant or planning to be, focus on what feels achievable right now.

Don't forget to comment and leave your recommendations too!