From baby bottles to tampons, everyday items may be exposing us to chemicals that alter hormones, impact reproductive health, and threaten the environment.
Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are chemical substances that interfere with the hormonal systems of living beings, including humans. These chemicals are found in many everyday products such as plastics, pesticides, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even some foods. They can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption.
Despite being invisible, their impact is significant. EDs have been linked to hormone-related disorders, reproductive issues, neurological problems, and various types of cancer. As such, they represent a serious public health and environmental concern.
How EDs Affect Human Health
Endocrine disruptors can impact anyone, but pregnant individuals, infants, and young children are particularly vulnerable. For instance, exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) during pregnancy has been linked to developmental issues in the fetus.
Documented Health Effects
- Disruption of brain, reproductive, and immune system development
- Increased risk of hormone-related cancers (breast, prostate, ovarian, endometrial)
- Fertility challenges (ovulation disorders, decreased sperm quality)
- Early puberty
- Endometriosis and ovarian abnormalities
How Endocrine Disruptors Work
EDs interfere with the body’s hormones in three main ways:
- Mimicking natural hormones: They imitate the body’s own hormones, triggering responses that shouldn’t occur.
- Blocking hormone receptors: They prevent natural hormones from binding to receptors on cells, disrupting normal function.
- Altering hormone levels: They interfere with the body’s ability to produce, regulate, or eliminate hormones, throwing off hormonal balance.
Even extremely small amounts of an endocrine disruptor can be enough to destabilize an entire hormonal system.
Reproductive Health and Developmental Risks
In people assigned male at birth:
- Reduced sperm quality
- Malformations of the penis and/or testicles
- Lower testosterone levels
In people assigned female at birth:
- Endometriosis
- Early puberty
- Ovarian dysfunction
Additional developmental concerns:
- Low birth weight
- Obesity
- Behavioral disorders
- Diabetes
Menstrual Products: A Common, but Overlooked Source of ED Exposure
Menstrual products such as tampons, pads, and menstrual cups are in direct contact with the body’s sensitive mucous membranes for several hours a day. Some conventional products may contain harmful chemicals like phthalates, parabens, and BPA, all of which are known endocrine disruptors.
These substances can:
- Be absorbed through the vaginal walls
- Disrupt sex hormone production and regulation
- Alter follicular growth
- Decrease fertility
Environmental consequences:
- Disposable menstrual products generate significant waste, taking years, sometimes decades to break down.
- EDs from menstrual waste can leach into soil, groundwater, and rivers, harming both wildlife and ecosystems.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
Choose sustainable, non-toxic menstrual products
- Look for products made with organic, natural materials like organic cotton
- Use menstrual cups made of medical-grade silicone
- Opt for washable cloth pads and reusable period underwear
These alternatives are safer for both your health and the environment.
Read labels carefully
- Avoid products containing: fragrances, chlorine, dyes, parabens, BPA, and phthalates
- If ingredients aren’t listed, think twice before using the product
Avoid plastic packaging
- Plastic wrappers may contain toxic chemicals that transfer to the product
- Look for packaging made from cardboard, paper, or recycled materials
Say no to scented products
- Fragrances often include irritants and can mask underlying issues
- Scented products are more likely to contain hidden EDs
Where to Find More Information
If you want to dive deeper into endocrine disruptors and their impact, here are some credible resources:
- Health Canada: Lists common EDs found in cosmetics, plastics, and pesticides
- Environmental Defence, Équiterre, and the Environmental Working Group (EWG): Provide educational materials, guides, and advocacy tools
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Offers extensive data and tips on how to reduce exposure to EDs in daily life
Endocrine disruptors are a real and urgent concern for both our personal health and the health of the planet. Fortunately, everyday choices, like switching to safer menstrual products, reading labels, and supporting eco-conscious brands, can significantly reduce our exposure.
By being informed and proactive, we can protect our hormonal health, reduce environmental damage, and advocate for a safer future for everyone.
