It’s Baby-Making Time! Are You Struggling to Conceive?

Approximately one in six people have experienced infertility at some stage in their lives, globally¹.  While some studies suggest this trend has plateaued, the scientific community remains divided. However, one thing is certain: environmental endocrine disruptors play a significant role in fertility challenges. The evidence is clear. So, does this mean that detoxif

ication before trying to conceive might help? Let’s dive into it.

The Invisible Load of Toxins

Every day, we’re exposed to a cocktail of chemicals from makeup, cleaning products, cookware, and even the air we breathe. Most of us don’t think twice about it. But over time, these exposures add up. Our bodies are amazing at storing toxins, only for them to quietly wreak havoc when we least expect it—like when we’re trying to conceive. It’s no surprise that infertility rates in both men and women are climbing.

Detoxification isn’t just about clearing out the old to make way for the new. It’s about preparing your body for one of its most important roles: growing a new life. Many of my clients who have had their heavy metal levels tested showed elevated levels, which we addressed through personalized detox programs. And guess what? Those efforts often lead to successful pregnancies. I speak from experience too—it took me four years to conceive my first child. Detoxing beforehand made a world of difference.

The Impact of Toxins on Future Generations

The effects of toxin exposure don’t just stop with us; they ripple into the next generation. While fragrance exposure alone may not be directly linked to the development of asthma, certain components found in everyday consumer products have been associated with exacerbating asthma symptoms, atopic dermatitis, and contact allergies² . These effects contribute to a growing list of health concerns, including the rising rates of autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and even cancer.

Reducing toxin exposure before conception could help mitigate these risks, creating a healthier environment for both parents and their future children. Timing is critical, though. Detoxing too close to conception can mobilize stored toxins, potentially exposing the developing baby during a vulnerable period. That’s why I recommend starting a detox at least six months before you plan to conceive, giving your body time to reset and ensuring a toxin-free environment for your baby’s earliest days.

The Scary Stats: Toxic Chemicals in Newborns

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) ³ found an average of 200 toxic chemicals in the umbilical cord blood of newborns. Think about that. From the moment of birth, babies are exposed to substances that could affect their development. Endocrine disruptors, in particular, interfere with hormone function, which is critical during fetal sexual differentiation and development.

Nourishing Your Body for the Journey

Carrying a baby places a tremendous demand on a woman’s body. Proper nutrition and supplementation are essential. Research shows that vitamin deficiencies can lead to pregnancy complications, including anemia, gestational diabetes, hypertension, and even infertility⁴. Here are some actionable steps to take at least a year before trying to conceive:

1. Ditch Toxic Products: Swap out conventional cosmetics, body products, and household cleaners for natural alternatives.

2. Ditch Plastic: Avoid plastic food containers and flame retardants.

3. Support Detoxification Naturally: Use foods, herbs, and safe supplements to prepare your body (think folic acid, vitamin D, and a quality prenatal vitamin).

4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being under or overweight can affect your fertility.

5. Practice Stress Management: Chronic stress throws your hormones out of balance.

How a Naturopath Can Help

Navigating preconception health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A naturopath can create a personalized plan to optimize your chances of conceiving safely, supporting both your health and your future baby’s development. Through tailored approaches like detoxification, dietary adjustments, and stress management, you can take proactive steps to foster a healthier environment for conception and pregnancy.

Ready to take the first step? Let’s work together to help make your baby-making journey as smooth and supportive as possible.

Emilie Houde ND. A

References:

1.         Infertility Prevalence Estimates, 1990-2021. 1st ed. World Health Organization; 2023.

2.         Parks J, Takaro TK. Exposure to cleaning products and childhood asthma: more than just a link? Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine. 2020;14(12):1185-1188. doi:10.1080/17476348.2020.1813572

3.         Body Burden: The Pollution in Newborns | Environmental Working Group. July 14, 2005. Accessed November 8, 2024. https://www.ewg.org/research/body-burden-pollution-newborns

4.         Adams JB, Kirby JK, Sorensen JC, Pollard EL, Audhya T. Evidence based recommendations for an optimal prenatal supplement for women in the US: vitamins and related nutrients. Maternal Health, Neonatology and Perinatology. 2022;8(1):4. doi:10.1186/s40748-022-00139-9