#2476 - Shanna H. Swan

Growing evidence points to a global fertility crisis linked to the widespread presence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, especially those found in plastic. Experts emphasize that the crisis isn’t unique to humans and point to similar signs in wildlife, raising alarms about environmental factors being a major driver beyond changing lifestyles.

Fertility Rates Decline Linked To Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals

Shanna H. Swan explains that fertility worldwide is declining, closely tied to chemicals commonly used in plastics. She asks whether lowering people’s exposure to these substances could improve fertility, emphasizing that such chemicals have wide-ranging health effects beyond reproduction. Joe Rogan shares a personal example: a friend named Philip saw radical improvements in sperm count and [restricted term] after actively reducing exposure to microplastics and other environmental chemicals. Rogan notes that this may be a widespread issue affecting many Americans, with plasticizers and other endocrine disruptors—a ubiquitous part of modern life—likely playing a key role in rising infertility.

The impact of these hormones isn’t limited to people. Swan recalls the work of Lou Gillette, a scientist who studied alligators in Florida. Alligators swimming in pesticide-contaminated lakes were found to have notably smaller penises—sometimes up to 25% smaller than those from cleaner lakes—lower [restricted term] (about 70% lower), abnormal hormone profiles, altered gonads, low hatching success, and frequent birth defects. These effects were all tied to endocrine-disrupting contaminants like DDT derivatives, dildrin, PCBs, and related compounds in the environment. The same chemicals also reduced egg production and contributed to species decline in the wild. Swan highlights this as a dramatic example that should have triggered broader alarms about the dangers of endocrine disruptors.

Experts Warn Declining Fertility Trend Mirrors Other Species' Declines, Suggesting Environmental Factor

Experts like Swan note that the falling fertility trend is not restricted to humans—other species experience similar declines, strengthening the case that the environment plays a substantial role. She emphasizes that traditional explanations for declining fertility, such as delayed childbe ...

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are pervasive in everyday life, found in numerous consumer products, food, clothing, and even the air we breathe. Experts like Shanna H. Swan emphasize that these chemicals—such as phthalates, bisphenols, PFAS, and others—can have a profound and immediate impact on human health, influencing hormones, fertility, immune function, and more.

Endocrine Disruptors Like Phthalates, Bisphenols, and PFAS Found In Everyday Products

Shanna H. Swan states that the presence of bisphenols, phthalates, and parabens in human urine is common and indicative of routine exposure to these substances in daily life. She explains that plasticizers like phthalates and bisphenol A are intentionally added to plastics for flexibility and other properties. These chemicals are water-soluble, easily measured in the body, and even small exposures are significant. Microplastics, which carry these plasticizers, heighten the danger by physically entering cells and causing inflammation, while simultaneously delivering chemical harm.

EDCs are found in a vast array of consumer products, including food and drink containers, coffee pods, plastic-lined paper cups, and cooking appliances. Drinking hot liquids from plastic-lined cups or using plastic coffee makers increases exposure, as heat accelerates chemical leaching. Cooking methods such as sous-vide can also contribute to contamination, as regular plastic bags may release chemicals like BPA and phthalates when heated, despite being marketed as food-safe. High-quality silicone bags are described as less prone to leaching, but even FDA-compliant plastics can release some chemicals.

Phthalates and bisphenols are also used in cosmetic products, perfumes, and all fragranced items. Swan notes that every time women use fragranced products, their body burden of phthalates increases, a finding borne out by biological testing. Air fresheners, scented candles, and in-car aroma systems are also sources of exposure, often labeled as “miscellaneous dangerous goods,” which highlights their recognized health risks.

EDCs are present not only in direct-contact items but also in textiles and clothing. Non-stick cookware and stain- or water-resistant clothing, rain jackets, and uniforms—especially those designed to be waterproof or stain-proof, including sports, school, airline, and firefighter uniforms—are major sources of PFAS exposure. Nylon and performance fitness wear are also implicated. The chemicals used to create these desirable properties form barriers but constitute ongoing sources of exposure for millions.

Chemicals such as phthalates are intentionally added to pesticides to increase the absorption of active ingredients into plants, illustrating how EDCs pervade the environment and enter both human and animal systems.

Chemicals Can Disrupt Hormones, Affecting Development, Reproduction, and Health

The core threat of endocrine disruptors lies in their ability to interfere with hormonal signaling, which can negatively impact bodily development, reproduction, and overall health. Swan emphasizes that these exposures have direct and immediate consequences, not just long-term risks for future generations. Regular exposure to these chemicals diminishes health, vitality, and energy, affecting everyone alive today.

Research demonstrates that phthalates and bisphenols are linked to altered [restricted term] levels in both men and women. Lower [restricted term] can reduce libido, muscle mass, and satisfaction with sex life. For instance, women with higher phthalate levels report lower sexual satisfaction and frequency. Fertility is reduced in both men and women as phthalate and bisphenol exposure increases; men with higher chemical burdens show reduced sperm counts and diminished sperm quality.

Evidence shows that lower fertility and sperm counts are associated with shorter lifespans, underscoring the seriousness of these widespread exposures. Swan also notes that exposure to chemicals like glyphosate is linked to anatomical changes even before birth, such as altered anogenital distance in animal studies—a proxy for reproductive health.

Chemical Exposure Linked To Reproductive Issues

Swan describes studies in which phthalate and bisphenol levels in urine correlate with reproductive difficulties, such as lower sperm quality in men and reduced sexual satisfaction and fertility in women. These chemical exposures can persistently impact couples’ ability to conceive, with evidence emerging from intervention studies that reduced chemical exposure may contribute to improved reproductive outcomes.

Joe Rogan underscores that typical exposures—including consuming freshwater fish—derive from various sources. PFAS, the so-called "forever chemicals," and mercury are found in many U.S. freshwater fish and can accumulate in the body, presenting additional risks to fetal and child development if consumed regularly. PFAS exposure is linked to negative out ...

The ongoing challenge of addressing chemical and plastic pollution is shaped by powerful industrial interests and the inherent complexities of chemical exposure, creating substantial barriers to systemic reform.

Petrochemical and Plastics Industries Wield Influence to Resist Regulations

Byproducts of Fossil Fuel Production Link the Plastics Industry's Interests With the Oil and Gas Lobby

Shanna H. Swan explains that plasticizers and many plastics are made from fossil fuel byproducts. This establishes a strong connection between the plastics and fossil fuel industries, creating a powerful alliance that resists regulation. Both sectors have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo, as any significant move away from petroleum-based plastics would reduce fossil fuel consumption, disrupt oil markets, and impact the economy on a large scale. The rate of plastic production continues to rise rapidly, further entrenching their interests.

Attempts to Ban Endocrine Disruptors Thwarted by Industry and Lack of Political Will

Both Swan and Joe Rogan highlight how industries oppose bans on harmful chemicals, such as endocrine disruptors and glyphosate, due to the wide-reaching economic implications. Efforts to restrict or eliminate chemicals like glyphosate from industrial agriculture were actively blocked by executive orders under pressure from industry. Swan notes that attempts at broader reforms, such as a worldwide plastics treaty, have failed to pass, largely due to strong opposition from industry players. She also points out that, unlike the European Union where over 1,100 chemicals are banned from personal care products, the U.S. government has been far less proactive. The lack of political will is reinforced by industry influence over federal regulators, leaving the public with minimal protection compared to other countries.

Chemical Exposure Complexity Hinders Causal Link Clarity, Enabling Industry Doubt

Assessing Health Impacts of Chemical Mixtures and Low-level Chronic Exposures Is Tough, Aiding Risk Downplayers

Another major barrier is the scientific complexity in assessing health impacts from the vast array of chemicals, especially as people are exposed to mixtures of chemicals at low levels over long periods. This complexity makes it difficult to draw clear causal links, providing cover for industries ...

Efforts to minimize chemical and endocrine-disrupting exposures are multifaceted, ranging from personal choices in daily routines to broader advocacy for regulation and education.

Reduce Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors: Choose Glass, Silicone, or Stainless Steel Over Plastic For Food Storage and Prep

Joe Rogan and Shanna H. Swan highlight the importance of replacing plastic in food preparation and storage with alternatives like glass, silicone, and stainless steel. For example, Rogan switched from a plastic coffee machine to a metal French press and uses a steel water boiler to avoid microplastic exposure. He points out that his new routine, though requiring more effort, improves taste and health by eliminating plastic contact with hot liquids.

Silicone emerges as a preferred choice, especially food-grade silicone, which is phthalate- and bisphenol-free and considered chemically inert under normal conditions. Swan recommends silicone zip-top bags for freezer, oven, and microwave use, and suggests replacing plastic sous-vide bags with silicone versions. Alternatives such as glass and ceramic containers are also endorsed for safe food storage.

Reusable kitchen wraps that fit around various foods are recommended over disposable plastic wrap. Beeswax wraps, made from paper treated with beeswax, and clean cloth bags for bread and cookies reduce plastic use and can be washed and reused. For personal care and cleaning, luffa mitts instead of plastic sponges, and natural ingredient products in glass or tin packaging are suggested.

Tips to further reduce exposure include never storing or heating food in plastic, replacing plastic cutting boards with wood or titanium, and using steel water bottles instead of single-use plastics. Swan also suggests looking for PFAS-free labels and choosing undyed or lightly dyed natural fibers for food storage cloths.

Reducing Chemical Exposures: Switch To Natural Products

Joe Rogan advocates using natural deodorants and personal care products with ingredients packaged in glass or tin to avoid chemical leaching from plastics. Swan stresses that detergent pods, tea bags, and coffee pods could introduce unwanted chemicals. Water purification is also addressed; reverse osmosis systems are cited as highly effective for removing contaminants.

Choosing Natural Fibers Over Synthetics to Avoid Harmful Chemicals

When it comes to clothing and textiles, Swan recommends natural fibers like cotton, linen, wool, hemp, or silk—preferably undyed and without “wrinkle-free” or stain-resistant coatings—to avoid chemical additives. PFAS-free outerwear and sports clothing are preferred. Rogan further examines sportswear and leggings, explaining that while bioplastics and plant-based synthetics may offer better performance, natural or mostly natural fabric options are less toxic and suitable for lower-impact use. Companies like Mate and Pangaea offer alternatives for those prioritizing health and comfort over maximal stretchiness or compression.

Experts Stress Need For Stronger Regulations and Corporate Accountability

Despite individual actions, both Rogan and Swan emphasize that widespread change requires corporate accountability and regulatory reform. They note that the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) could play a greater role in regulating dangerous chemicals, and upcoming revisions may be an opportunity for advocacy and public intervention.

Lawsuits against companies using harmful chemicals—such as in yoga pants or outerwear—are becoming mor ...