10 Ways to Reduce Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) & Toxins During Pregnancy - Naturally
- Jen Walpole
- Jul 22
- 4 min read
Pregnancy is a beautiful, transformative time but as a mum myself, I understand that it’s also a time where toxin exposure matters more than ever and it can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start.
As soon as we reach pregnancy, we step into our lifelong role as protective mothers and we want to do our very best to protect our growing baby from the world we live in today - toxins and all.
From endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) to hidden toxins in food, personal care, and even cookware - I have created a guide for you with 10 simple, toxin-free lifestyle swaps to support your body (and your growing baby) naturally.
1. Watch Your Plastics
Plastics, especially those containing BPA and phthalates, are some of the most common sources of EDCs. These chemicals can leach into your food and beverages, especially when heated.
Pregnancy-safe swaps:
Store food in glass or stainless steel containers
Avoid microwaving in plastic (this includes plastic feeding bottles when the time comes)
Choose glass or metal reusable bottle
Say no to clingfilm- try beeswax wraps or silicone covers instead
Where to shop: Black & Blum and &Keep - use code JEN for 10% off &Keep
2. Be Smart with Fragrance
“Fragrance” on labels often hides a cocktail of synthetic chemicals, including phthalates- well-known hormone disruptors.
Safer options:
Opt for unscented or naturally scented skincare, bodycare and cleaning products
Swap synthetic candles for soy or beeswax candles with essential oils and keep rooms well ventilated if burning candles
Switch to a natural perfume or essential oil roll-on, or go fragrance-free altogether during pregnancy
Where to shop: Content Beauty Wellbeing, Abel Fragrance, Purdy & Figg, Bower Collective and NEOM
3. Avoid Forever Chemicals in Cookware
Non-stick pans, especially those with Teflon coatings, contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)- known as "forever chemicals" because they linger in the body and environment.
Better swaps:
Use ceramic, cast iron, or stainless steel pans instead
Don’t heat non-stick cookware to high temperatures if you still use them- overheating can release toxic fumes
Where to shop: Our Place
4. Be Mindful of Alcohol (Even in Small Amounts)
Alcohol is a neurotoxin, and there’s no known safe amount during pregnancy. It can interfere with fetal brain development and hormone regulation.
Supportive mindset:
Enjoy sparkling water with fresh mint, lime, or cucumber as a refreshing alternative
Try alcohol-free botanical spirits if you’re missing the ritual- brands
Where to shop: Pentire, Botivo, Motherroot and Trip (magnesium option only, avoid the CBD!)
5. Avoid Unwashed Salad, Raw Meats & Smoked Fish
Toxins don’t just come from chemicals - bacteria like listeria, salmonella, and toxoplasma are also risky during pregnancy, especially early pregnancy.
Smart swaps:
Always wash mixed salad leaves, vegetables and fruit, even salads that are ‘washed and ready to eat’
Avoid undercooked meats, raw seafood, or certain soft cheeses like goats cheese & camembert
Be cautious with smoked fish (like smoked salmon), which can harbor bacteria. Choose hot smoked fish instead
6. Say No to Endocrine Disruptors in Beauty
What you put on your skin matters. Many beauty products contain parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances that can cross the placental barrier.
Fertility- and pregnancy-friendly beauty brands:
Use code JENWAL10 for 10% off at Natural Dispensary
7. Reduce Indoor Air Pollution
Indoor air quality can suffer from cooking fumes, synthetic cleaning sprays, and poor ventilation- all of which increase exposure to toxins like VOCs and PAHs.
Pregnancy-friendly upgrades:
Open your windows every day for airflow
Use a HEPA-filter air purifier (I recommend Amazing Air- affiliate link)
Clean with natural sprays like Purdy & Fig, which use only essential oils and water
8. Rethink Home Fragrance
Diffusers, candles, plug-ins, and air fresheners often emit synthetic VOCs that may interfere with hormone balance.
Natural fragrance swaps:
Diffuse pure essential oils using a diffuser
Use natural soy wax melts or dried herbs (like lavender) in sachets around the home
Where to shop: NEOM and Neal’s Yard
9. Choose Organic When Possible
Pesticides are another source of EDCs, and studies show prenatal exposure can impact long-term health.
Smart swaps:
Follow the “Dirty Dozen” & “Clean Fifteen” lists to prioritise organic produce
Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly
Consider organic or grass-fed animal products for reduced antibiotic and hormone exposure
Where to shop: Pack’d (Code JEN25 for 25% off- min purchase of £40, one use per customer only) and Riverford (Use the link for £15 off)
10. Check Your Cooked vs. Raw Foods
Some foods become more powerful after cooking. For example, cooked tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which supports both maternal and fetal health.
Food safety tips in pregnancy:
Cook tomatoes and leafy greens to reduce bacteria risk
Heat leftovers to steaming hot, especially grains like rice and meats
Avoid sushi with raw fish, runny eggs (unless pasteurised), and rare meats
Final Thoughts
During pregnancy, your body is not only growing your baby - it’s also filtering and processing your environment. While we can’t avoid every toxin, small intentional choices can dramatically reduce your exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and other harmful substances.
Whether it’s skipping synthetic fragrance, switching to glass containers, or saying goodbye to Teflon- each conscious decision lightens your toxic load and creates a safer, healthier space for your growing baby.
To find out more about Jen's pregnancy package, click here 🤍
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