Are fertility issues linked to cleaning products?!

We asked natural fertility expert, Jaya Ferreira...

1. Are everyday cleaning products linked to fertility issues?

They can be. Most people don’t realise how many everyday cleaning products are filled with hormone-disrupting chemicals. These can mess with your cycle, egg quality, and even increase miscarriage risk. We’re not talking about a single spray here or there—but when you’re using these products regularly, it adds up. Especially when you’re trying to conceive, it’s worth paying attention.

2. What chemicals should we be looking out for?

Here are a few to watch out for when you’re choosing cleaning or household products:

• Fragrance – Sounds harmless, right? But “fragrance” is actually a trade secret loophole where companies can hide dozens of chemicals, including hormone disruptors like phthalates. If a product just says “fragrance” or “parfum” with no further info—put it back.

• Bleach and ammonia – These are super common in bathroom and kitchen sprays but can irritate your lungs and may increase inflammation in the body (not what we want when trying to conceive).

• BPA – Found in plastics, especially older food containers and drink bottles. It’s been linked to lower egg and sperm quality and is one of the most studied hormone disruptors.

• Aerosol sprays – Think air fresheners and oven cleaners. These can release VOCs
  (volatile organic compounds), which can linger in the air and affect hormone health.

These can impact both male and female fertility and are known to increase oxidative stress and inflammation. The tricky part is—they’re not always obvious on the label. If it’s heavily fragranced or the ingredient list is hard to understand, it’s a good sign to switch.

3. If you're hoping to conceive, when should you switch to non-toxic products?

Honestly—start now if you can. But no need to panic or do a massive overhaul overnight. Just start replacing things as they run out. One spray at a time. The goal is to lower your overall chemical load so your hormones can do their thing. And remember—it’s not about being perfect, it’s about doing better where you can. Ideally you want to make the switch 3 months before you want to start trying.

4. Once pregnant, can cleaning products still be a concern?

Yes. Some of the ingredients in cleaning products can cross the placenta, and that’s not ideal during such a crucial time of development. We’re talking potential impacts on birth weight, preterm labour, and even long-term health outcomes. Pregnancy is the perfect time to keep things as gentle and low-tox as possible for you and your baby.

5. Are there other products we should be careful with when TTC?

Yes, cleaning products are just the beginning. So many of the everyday things we use without thinking can quietly affect our hormones and fertility. A few to keep an eye on:

• Scented candles and air fresheners – Often full of synthetic fragrance and VOCs
  (volatile organic compounds), which can mess with hormones.

• Skincare, makeup, and fake tan – Many contain parabens, phthalates, and other
  hormone-disrupting chemicals. Look for brands that are pregnancy-safe or specifically low-tox. If you’re using fake tan, opt for ones without DHA or choose a mineral-based bronzer instead.

• Acrylic nails and gel polishes – The chemicals used (and the fumes in salons) may not be ideal when trying to conceive. Occasional use probably isn’t a deal-breaker, but if it’s a regular thing, it’s worth rethinking.

• Plastic food containers and drink bottles – Especially if they’re not BPA-free or you're heating food in them.

• Non-stick pans – Older coatings can leach endocrine disruptors when heated.

It’s not about cutting out everything you love. It’s about knowing what might be worth
swapping—so you’re supporting your fertility from all angles, not just with supplements and food.

Jaya Ferreira is a natural fertility expert with a Master’s in Reproductive Medicine and over 15 years of experience helping women and couples get pregnant—especially when things haven’t gone to plan. She combines the best of science and holistic care to take the overwhelm out of fertility and offer a more personalised, grounded approach. Whether someone is just starting to try or feeling burnt out from the journey, Jaya helps them feel clear, supported, and hopeful again.

If you would like further support you can reach out to Jaya here!