The Hidden Chemicals Disrupting Women’s Hormones at Every Stage of Life

Hormone imbalances are more common than ever, and not just in women approaching menopause. I see women of all ages struggling with irregular cycles, endometriosis, PCOS, early menopause, fertility challenges, and even hormone-related cancers.

And while genetics, diet, and lifestyle all play their part, research is pointing toward something else – a hidden but powerful disruptor: endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and a group of man-made “forever chemicals” known as PFAS.

What makes these so concerning is that exposure starts long before adulthood (even before birth) and builds over time, creating a ripple effect across every stage of a woman’s life.

Let’s talk about what EDCs and PFAS actually are, how they impact your hormones, and most importantly, what you can do to protect yourself and your family.

What are EDCs and PFAS?

Your hormones run the show when it comes to growth, reproduction, energy, mood, and metabolism. Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are substances that interfere with this delicate system.

They can:

• Mimic natural hormones (like estrogen or thyroid hormones)

• Block hormone receptors

• Alter production or breakdown of hormones

The result? Confused signals, imbalances, and long-term health consequences.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a subgroup of these disruptors. Nicknamed “forever chemicals,” they don’t easily break down in the body or environment. They’re used in everyday products like non-stick cookware, waterproof fabrics, food packaging, and even cosmetics. And because they’re so persistent, they end up in our soil, water, air and bodies.

Common sources of exposure include:

• Food and water (contamination from packaging and manufacturing)

• Makeup, skincare, perfume

• Cleaning products and laundry detergents

• Non-stick cookware and plastics

• Household dust, receipts, and flame-retardant furniture

When does exposure start – and why it last a lifetime?

Here’s the part that’s rarely talked about: exposure begins in utero.

• Fetal development – EDCs and PFAS can cross the placenta, so exposure starts before birth. They’re also passed through breast milk.

• Childhood & puberty – The developing endocrine system is especially vulnerable, meaning even small doses can have lasting effects.

• Reproductive years – Conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and fertility struggles are increasingly being linked to cumulative chemical exposure.

• Perimenopause & beyond – EDCs can accelerate menopause, reduce ovarian reserve, and increase risk of hormone-related cancers.

Because these chemicals build up in fat tissue, the “bioaccumulation effect” means little exposures add up, often lingering in the body for decades.

The health impacts we’re seeing now

The science is clear: EDCs and PFAS are strongly linked to women’s health concerns we see every day, including:

• Infertility & reduced egg reserve

• PCOS

• Endometriosis

• Insulin resistance & type 2 diabetes

• Early menopause

• Hormone-related cancers (breast, ovarian, endometrial)

But here’s the important part: not everyone is affected the same way. How your body responds depends on your unique biology. For example:

• Genetics – Certain variations slow down detox capacity.

• Detox pathways – If your liver, kidneys, or gut aren’t working efficiently, chemicals linger.

• Nutritional status – Key vitamins and minerals are needed for detoxification.

• Microbiome health – Your gut, oral, and vaginal microbiome help regulate hormones.

• Stress & inflammation – A nervous system stuck in “fight or flight” lowers detox efficiency.

This explains why one woman may develop PCOS or endometriosis while another with similar exposures doesn’t.

7 steps to protect your Hormones from EDCs

The good news? You’re not powerless. Small, strategic steps make a big difference.

1. Get tested – Functional testing for nutrient status, detox capacity, microbiome health, and even genetics gives you clarity.

2. Support detox organs – Nourish your liver, gut, kidneys, and skin with hydration, fibre, and whole foods.

3. Reduce inflammation – Anti-inflammatory foods (think leafy greens, omega-3s, turmeric) calm the system.

4. Manage stress – Breathwork, meditation, or restorative movement help your nervous system rebalance.

5. Check microbiome health – Gut, vaginal, and oral microbiomes all play a role in hormone metabolism.

6. Explore genetic testing – If detox genes are sluggish, targeted nutritional support helps.

7. Minimise exposure – Swap to low-tox products, filter your water, choose safer cookware.

Practical Low-Tox lifestyle swaps

Perfection isn’t the goal. Progress is. Here are some easy first steps:

• Personal care – Choose products free from parabens and phthalates.

• Cleaning – Go fragrance-free and plant-based.

• Cookware – Replace non-stick pans with stainless steel or cast iron.

• Plastics – Avoid microwaving in plastic and cut back on single-use plastics.

• Water – Invest in a good filter designed to remove PFAS.

Every little swap lowers your toxic load and frees up energy for your hormones to do what they’re meant to do.

EDCs and PFAS are a reality of modern life, but they don’t get to control your story. By reducing exposure, supporting detox pathways, and making small low-tox swaps, you can protect your hormones at every stage of life. Your hormones are precious, and with the right knowledge, you have far more control than you might think.