WOMEN’S WELLNESS PART 7: PHTHALATES
Are you currently exposed to phthalates on a regular basis?
Were you exposed to phthalates during the developmental stages of your life, such as your mother working in a hair salon whilst pregnant?
Have you tried reducing phthalate exposure and seen an improvement in your symptoms?
Higher phthalate levels were associated with a two-fold increase in the rate of endometriosis.
Phthalates can be found in almost anything fragranced. They are widely used in soft plastic, vinyl, cleaning products, nail polish, and fragrances.
In 2002, environmental groups reported that over 70% of personal care products contained phthalates.
Today, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, more than 470 million pounds of phthalates are being produced each year.
They are now officially recognised as a reproductive toxin throughout the European Union and the U.S.
Rats given high doses of a particular phthalate stopped ovulating.
Phthalates decrease the production of oestrogen by the follicles, and oestrogen is one of the main drivers of follicle growth and egg development in animals and human alike.
Phthalate exposure suppressed the production of oestrogen by the follicle cells, which would be expected to suppress follicle growth.
After understanding the above, it is no surprise why significantly higher levels of phthalates in women with endometriosis than those without the condition.
Below is a list of potential exposures:
Plastic can leach into food, this can be from plastic packaging especially when the food has been placed in the package whilst hot, or if the food has been in the packaging for a long period of time.
Personal Care Products:
– Cosmetic products
– Hair products
– Lotions
– Infant care products
– Medication
– Medical devices
– Nail polish
– Perfume
Vinyl:
– Shower curtains
– Flooring
– Wallpapers
– Blinds
– Diaper mats
– Rain gear
– Inflatable mattresses
– School supplies
– Car interiors
– Yoga mats
Miscellaneous:
– Air fresheners
– Electronics
– Plastic jewellery
– ‘Pleasurable’ toys
– Toys