Is Your Shampoo Messing With Your Hormones?

Good morning. It’s Saturday, March 29, and we’re talking about 6 easy ways to reduce EDC exposure and how it affects women with PCOS. First time reading? Join other ladies who are thriving in spite of having PCOS. Sign up here.

And, as always, send us feedback at [email protected]

The Essentials

If you’ve been doing “all the right things” to support your PCOS—eating better, moving more, managing stress—but your hormones still feel like they’re in a group chat without you…
…it might be time to talk about endocrine-disrupting chemicals (aka EDCs).

No, this isn’t a crunchy-girl PSA to live off-grid and make your own toothpaste. But it is a heads-up that some everyday products could be messing with your hormones behind your back.

Let’s unpack it.

Quick refresher on EDCs

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are substances that interfere with your body’s hormone production, signaling, or balance.

In other words: they sneak in, pretend to be estrogen or other hormones, and confuse your system. Not helpful when you’re already dealing with PCOS.

They can be found in:

• Plastic containers

• Nonstick cookware

• Conventional cleaning supplies

• Fragrance-heavy personal care products

• Pesticide-covered food

• And yes, even receipts 

Why EDCs Hit Harder for People With PCOS

If you have PCOS, your hormones are already dancing as if they have two left feet. Add in EDCs, and it’s like inviting a DJ with no rhythm to the party.

✔️ They can increase estrogen dominance, making your cycles more irregular
✔️ They may mimic testosterone, fueling symptoms like acne and hair thinning
✔️ They can worsen insulin resistance, making weight loss harder
✔️ They mess with thyroid function, which is already sensitive in many women with PCOS

EDCs don’t cause PCOS—but they definitely don’t help. So let’s talk damage control.

6 Easy Ways to Reduce EDC Exposure (No Lifestyle Overhaul Required)

This is your realistic game plan. No shame, no pressure— make it easy and pick 1–2 to start.

1. Swap Your Plastic for Glass (or Stainless Steel)

That cute water bottle or meal prep container? If it’s plastic—especially when heated—it could be leaching BPA or phthalates, which mimic estrogen.

✅ Use glass or stainless steel whenever possible
✅ Don’t microwave or store hot food in plastic
✅ Skip the plastic wrap over hot leftovers

Start by replacing your go-to water bottle with a reusable glass one.

2. Say “Nope” to Synthetic Fragrance

“Fragrance” or “parfum” on a label = industry loophole for dozens of undisclosed chemicals. Some of them are linked to hormone disruption.

✅ Look for “fragrance-free” or “unscented” (not the same as “natural”)
✅ Try essential oil–based products for scent
✅ Think beyond perfume: this includes shampoo, laundry detergent, candles, body lotion, etc.

Start by swapping out your body wash or lotion first—small wins matter.

3. Rethink Your Nonstick Pans

Teflon = convenience, but also potential exposure to PFAS (“forever chemicals”), which have been linked to hormone disruption, thyroid problems, and fertility issues.

✅ Opt for ceramic, stainless steel, or cast iron pans
✅ If you’re not ready to part with your favorite skillet, avoid using it on high heat or when scratched

Start by replacing your most-used nonstick pan with a basic ceramic one.

4. Upgrade Your Cleaning Products

Many cleaning supplies contain ammonia, chlorine, and synthetic fragrance—a trifecta of endocrine chaos.

✅ Look for EWG-verified or fragrance-free options
✅ DIY with vinegar, baking soda, and lemon (if you’re feeling adventurous)

Start by trying a safer all-purpose cleaner for your counters or kitchen table.

5. Wash Your Produce (Yes, Even Organic)

Pesticides = hormone disruptors. Even “organic” produce can have residue from nearby sprays.

✅ Use a vinegar + water rinse (or store-bought produce wash)
✅ Buy organic for the “Dirty Dozen” when possible (look up the latest list from EWG)

Start by washing apples, berries, and spinach—aka pesticide sponges

6. Ditch the Receipts

Thermal receipts are coated with BPA or BPS—and touching them can actually raise your BPA levels within minutes.

✅ Say “email it to me” or “no receipt” whenever you can
✅ Don’t crumple them in your bag or use them to wipe your hands (yes, people do this 😳)

Start by keeping hand sanitizer nearby and use it after handling receipts (not before)

Reminder: Small Changes Add Up

You don’t need to detox your entire house in a weekend. But every swap reduces your exposure, giving your hormones one less thing to fight.

✔️ Start with your most-used items
✔️ Avoid heating plastic
✔️ Cut down on fragrance in products you purchase
✔️ And drink your filtered water, Queen

quick question…

Have you made any EDC-reducing swaps recently? What’s one product you ditched (or can’t give up)?
Hit reply and let me know 👇
Also—what PCOS topic do you want us to cover next?

Let’s clean house—literally and hormonally. 🧼🧠✨

Products You Can Use

> Spearmint tea, rich in antioxidants and beneficial compounds, offers various health benefits, including improved digestion, hormone balancing, and reduced stress. Notably, it may help lower testosterone levels, which can be beneficial for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) experiencing symptoms like excess facial hair. (More)

> My Go-To Shampoo Recommendation: Hair Story shampoo is a sulfate-free, gentle cleanser that promotes scalp health and reduces buildup, making it ideal for women with PCOS who often experience hair thinning. (More)

> True Earth laundry strips are eco-friendly, chemical-free, and hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for women with PCOS who may have sensitive skin or are looking to reduce exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can worsen hormonal imbalances. (More)

> Molly's Suds is a laundry detergent brand founded by a pediatric nurse and mother, focusing on creating safe and effective cleaning products for families. Their detergents are made with simple, plant-based ingredients, free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin, including babies and women with PCOS. (More)

> The Unscented Company is dedicated to redefining the concept of cleanliness by offering a line of natural, fragrance-free home and body care products. (More)

Weekly PCOS Recipes

PCOS Friendly Pumpkin Pancakes (Recipe Here)

Chia and Quinoa Parfait (Recipe Here)

Everything Cottage Cheese (Recipes Here)

^{Why PCOS Queens? I want to save you the energy and time in researching and instead give you the shortcut to managing PCOS. I want to help you avoid feeling self-conscious and thinking you have to accept how things are. I want to help you overcome the worst of your symptoms, feel empowered and discover your inner strength. I want to hand you the keys to take back control of your life.}

*Disclaimer: Every women is unique, and this information is provided for educational purposes only. I share summarized research data and personal experience, but this should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance on your specific health needs.