• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Fertility Topics
  • Fertility Therapies
  • Hormone Health
  • Nutrition
  • Success Stories
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com
  • Shop Products
  • PROGRAMS
  • ARTICLES
Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility Info.com

Natural Fertility tips, information, herbs, supplements and more

  • Shop Products

Toxins & Fertility

Environmental Toxins to Avoid for Healthy Fertility

Leah Campbell
July 17, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

Visit any natural healthcare practitioner, or do any amount of research on the web, and you may walk away with a rather dismal conclusion about the environment we live in: human-made toxins are impacting health negatively.

Nuclear explosions, factory emissions, chemicals all over our fruits and hormones in our meats; it seems that everywhere you look, there is the potential for damage at the hands of an environment which has been sorely abused.

So when it comes to your fertility, how do you avoid the bad that is in even the air you breathe? It starts by recognizing the environmental toxins you are most often exposed to, and learning how to reduce your risks.

Around the House

Yes, even within the confines of your own four walls, there are reasons for concern. It is possible your beauty and cleaning supplies could be harming your fertility, without any way of knowing for sure. That is because, out of the thousands of chemicals which are used to create the products you utilize every day, only a fraction have actually been tested for safety. Of those that have been tested, we know there are a few which present potential dangers and the possibility of reduced fertility. Phthalates, for instance, are a group of chemicals that may be found in your makeup bag, your laundry detergent, and your child’s toy chest. Studies have shown they inhibit fertility in both men and women, yet the FDA still allows them to be used in products you utilize every day. When it comes to cleaning products, the potential for harm can be even more frightening.

The problem is that there seems to be far too many barriers to actually banning the use of harmful chemicals in this country, which means that you have to work to educate yourself and limit exposure as much as possible. Watch labels and look up anything you don’t recognize. Use natural options whenever you can, particularly when it comes to cleaning products and anything you apply directly to your body. Vinegar and baking soda can actually provide a better cleaning quality than anything you may buy at the store, and using them is far safer than the chemicals we don’t yet know enough about.

The Foods You Eat

Pesticides and hormones carry the biggest threat when it comes to the foods you eat, but even the overproduction of many items for sale today should raise some red flags.

Let’s just think about this logically for a moment. Foods which have been genetically modified or pumped full of chemicals and hormones to increase growth or production may look pretty at the store, but what risks do they carry when you actually ingest them? Those chemicals and hormones can actually throw your entire body out of stasis, interfering with your reproductive systems and altering your own natural hormonal balance.

That is why eating a whole foods and organic diet is so important. Look at the labels on some of the food items in your pantry right now. How often are you able to recognize all the ingredients listed? When it comes to anything pre-packaged, the answer is probably not all that often. Out of all those ingredients, the potential for harm increases for each of those unrecognizable elements. Even for those you are able to sit down and research yourself, there is always the possibility that studies simply haven’t been conducted yet to assess safety.

But with organic food items purchased while still in their whole foods state, you know exactly what you are getting. Unlike tomato sauce in a jar, you can identify a whole tomato and recognize the components that go into the tomato sauce you make yourself.

Obviously, there is more work involved in a whole foods diet, and the cost of eating organic is absolutely higher. But the overall benefits to your health and fertility are worth educating yourself on when it comes to what you are putting into your body. When all else fails, at least adhere to an organic diet for meat, dairy and the “dirty dozen” – the 12 most contaminated produce items at the store:

  • Apples
  • Celery
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Cucumbers
  • Grapes
  • Hot Peppers
  • Nectarines
  • Peaches
  • Sweet Bell Peppers
  • Strawberries
  • Spinach
  • Potatoes

The Air You Breathe

Air pollutants have been found to reduce fertility in both men and women. It makes sense when you think about it – paint fumes, car exhaust, and factory emissions; it all combines to create unhealthy smog in more urban areas. If you can actually see the pollution in the air, doesn’t it stand to reason that it could be harming your body as you breathe it?

The problem is that you don’t have to see pollution in order for it to be harmful. Studies have found that those with the highest exposure to these pollutants tend to have a harder time getting pregnant, but any level could be potentially reducing your chances. So, the goal becomes to reduce exposure as much as possible. If you can, consider moving to a more rural area and utilize items such as air purifiers around your home to create a cleaner environment at least within your own safe haven.

The Choices You Make

Yes, lifestyle choices have an effect on your fertility. And the toxins you choose to consume could be inhibiting not only your chances of conception, but also the chances of those around you. For women who smoke, there is an increased risk of miscarriages and trouble conceiving. But you don’t have to be the one taking puffs for your fertility to suffer. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also lead to reduced fertility for both men and women. Obviously, if you or your spouse is a smoker, now is the time to quit. Take it a step further though, and remove yourself from any situation where smoking is taking place. This isn’t always an easy thing to do, but reducing your exposure is the best way to avoid the negative effects to your fertility.

When it Comes to Plastics

BPA has become a common household term, rarely ever referred to by its full name – Bisphenol A. This is a chemical that has been used in the past to harden plastics, although many newer plastic manufactures have moved away from using it as the potential hazards have gained more recognition. Exposure to BPA has been linked to reduced egg quality and hormonal imbalances. Most plastics today now contain a “BPA Free” label, to let consumers know the product has been deemed safe.

Of course, “safe” is relative, and the truth is – we still don’t know enough about the other chemicals used in the production of plastic. Even if BPA is not in play, there may still be reason for concern. As such, taking a step away from the use of plastics in your home could prove beneficial. Opt for glass containers whenever possible, and never, under any circumstances, microwave food in a plastic container – it is believed that heating plastic may actually cause the chemicals to leach into your food.

Tackling the Problem

Avoiding all the toxins in your environment would be an impossible feat but, by remaining aware of the potential hazards, you can begin to make a dent in your current exposure. Try employing an 80/20 rule, where you attempt to eliminate 80% of the toxins in your home and foods. Sometimes even this may not be possible, but making an effort can only improve your overall health and well-being.

References

  • Peeples, L. (n.d.). Toxic Environmental Exposures Could Cause Reproductive Harm Across Generations, Study Suggests. Retrieved from: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/03/toxic-environmental-exposures-epigenetics-pcos-reproduction_n_1475232.html
  • Gurevich, R. (n.d.). Why BPA Is Bad for Your Fertility and How to Avoid It. Retrieved from: http://infertility.about.com/b/2013/10/02/environmental-toxins-threaten-fertility-and-babies-but-who-will-do-something-about-it.htm
  • New Studies Linking Environmental Toxins to Infertility Validate Benef. (n.d.). Retrieved from: http://www.prweb.com/releases/new-studies-validate/fertiledetox-fertility/prweb11259651.htm
  • Rufus, A. (n.d.). Can Food Make You Infertile? Foods to Eat and Avoid. Retrieved from: http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2011/12/09/can-food-make-you-infertile-foods-to-eat-and-avoid.html
  • Walston, A. (n.d.). Infertility and Air Pollution – Moms Clean Air Force. Retrieved from: http://www.momscleanairforce.org/infertility-and-air-pollution/
  • Elton, C. (n.d.). Pollutants Linked to Lower Fertility in Both Men and Women | TIME.com. Retrieved from: http://healthland.time.com/2012/11/15/pollutants-linked-to-lower-fertility-in-both-men-and-women/
  • Henry, T. (n.d.). BPA, phthalate exposure may cause fertility problems. Retrieved from: http://www.cnn.com/2013/10/15/health/bpa-miscarriage-phthalates-fertility/
  • EWG’s Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce. (n.d.). Retrieved from: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/summary.php
  • Smoking and infertility. (n.d.). Retrieved from: https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/smoking-and-infertility/

« Previous Post
4 Steps to Creating Affirmations for a Positively Fertile Life
Next Post »
Success Story: Angi's Natural Conception After IVF

About the Author

Leah Campbell

Leah Campbell

Leah Campbell has a degree in psychology from San Diego State University and is a professional writer. She is Author of the highly rated book Single Infertile Female and her work can be found in the Huffington post, Redbook, and many other publications.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 19

Open
What you are doing today is impacting the health of your eggs 90 days from now. Let's pamper those eggs! 
​
​If you are wondering where to get started, download my egg health guide at www.EggHealthTips.com

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 17

Open
Can added sugars in our diets affect hormonal health and fertility? Here are the details and the effects sugary foods can have on hormonal and reproductive health... 
​
​What's your biggest hurdle when it comes to sugar?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 12

Open
Diana’s story is one of true heartbreak after years of struggle, but with a glorious golden light at the end of the tunnel. Here is her truly inspiring fertility journey…
​
​​​​​
​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 6

Open
Q: I am on birth control, can I start supporting my hormonal health with herbs and supplements or do I need to be off of birth control to start?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 4

Open
Have you been waiting to begin making healthy lifestyle changes to support your fertility health? Do you feel overwhelmed about where to begin?
​
​What has been holding you back?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

May 2

Open
Girls, we all have one. Here are some ways to encourage health and balance, naturally...
​
​For the full guide, click the link in our Bio.
​

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 27

Open
Jennifer experienced multiple miscarriages before finding our website. She became inspired by our success stories and was determined to become one too! Read more about her journey... 
​
​
​​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 25

Open
Q: When should someone consider having testing done?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 21

Open
To make an impact on your health, you will need to first learn the actions and steps to take... then you will need to be consistent with those actions. It is the consistency that brings you the results. You are going to be human and not be perfect 100% of the time. Just accept that and get back to it. Consistency, day in and out, is more important than being perfect. You can't be 100% perfect for long, but you can be consistent every day.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 19

Open
If you’ve undergone many consecutive fertility treatments without a successful pregnancy, it could be time for a break. Taking a break gives your body a chance to cleanse, reset and recover. Relief from the side effects and stress could be exactly what you need for a fresh start for your fertility journey.

Use the time to work on yourself- mind and body. A break might even give you the opportunity to find a new sense of peace or a new version of your fertility program.
​
Learn more about natural therapies you can use to help your body reset after medical fertility treatments...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 13

Open
After 6 unsuccessful IUIs and one IVF of the same result, Angela takes a break and discovers the Natural Fertility Company. Using our resources to help her implement some changes, she has a much different result on her next IVF at 43. Click through the slides to read her story...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 11

Open
Q: My partner smokes, will this affect his fertility?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 6

Open
I have KMF imprinted on many of my personal belongings as a constant reminder to Keep Moving Forward. This started to be my mantra about 20 years ago when I was in a tough patch and knew the only way was through, and step by step. Keep moving forward. What is the next step, shuffle or even pause that may need to happen? Whatever it is, move towards it, into it, and forward.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 4

Open
With so many chemicals and outside factors contributing to estrogen dominance in the body, it is good to help support hormonal balance and one way to do that is through foods.
​
​Here are some tips, including foods that help to promote the body's natural ability to get rid of excess estrogens. ..
​
​Are you getting any of these foods in your weekly diet?

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Apr 1

Open
Trish conceives her second child with natural therapies at 37. Swipe through to read her story... 
​
​​​**While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 30

Open
Q: I have heavy periods, should I be concerned about using tampons?
​
​Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 28

Open
I knew what my life's calling was at a very young age. At around 16, I had a dream where a dreadlocked rasta man came to me (Burning Spears to be exact) and in that dream was told that I was to be a healer. It was the type of dream that was more real than reality. The next day I woke up feeling different than I had ever felt before. Later on that day, we had new neighbors move into the house above us and a woman came and introduced herself. When I opened the door, she said her name and told me she was opening up a school of healing and that I was to be one of her students. It was one of the most intense series of events in my life. I went on to go to her school and my path started with an amazing community and so much support. What are one of the most life changing experiences you have had? I would love to hear...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Stress can be one of the primary factors behind infertility. Believe it or not, our bodies are equipped to prevent conception from occurring during times of extreme stress. The presence of adrenaline, the hormone that is released by our bodies during stressful times, signals to our body that conditions are not ideal for conception. Adrenaline inhibits us from utilizing the hormone progesterone, which is essential for fertility. It also causes the pituitary gland to release higher levels of prolactin, which also causes infertility to occur.
​
​Swipe left for ways to reduce the effect of stress on your fertility...

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
At 39, Milissa focuses on natural ways to prevent another miscarriage & goes on to conceive. Swipe through the slides to read more about her journey... 
​
​
​**​​While testimonials are real life experiences of those who have used our products, results do vary. We do not claim that they are typical results that consumers will generally achieve. The testimonials are not necessarily representative of all of those who will use our products and/or services.

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 17

Open
​We come into contact with xenohormones on a daily basis. Once you know where and what they are, you can avoid them or not use products that contain them. There has been extensive research on the connection between xenohormones and hormone disruption, which leads us to fertility issues and imbalances. Swipe through the slides to see what our answer is...
​
​If you would like support in getting started with your Ditch and Switch, download my free guide on how to get started. The link is in our Bio.
Load More...

Footer

  • Programs
  • Upcoming Classes

  • Consultations
  • Contact Us