Many women run straight for a warm bath after a stressful day. This is often coupled with the soft and soothing light of their favorite scented candle. But do these artificial odors affect a woman’s hormone cycle? To shed light on this, we turn to women’s self-help author and PMS expert Marla Ahlgrimm.
What is an endocrine disruptor (EDC)?
Marla Ahlgrimm: An endocrine disrupter is essentially a chemical that can have a negative impact on your body’s endocrine (hormone) system.
What are some ways endocrine disruptors can affect a woman’s hormones?
Marla Ahlgrimm: EDCs can mimic some of the body’s natural hormones, such as estrogen. This may confuse the body’s internal hormone messaging system, leading to imbalances in the many body systems regulated by the hormones.
What is hormone disruption?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Hormone disruption happens when an EDC (or other invader) causes a hiccup in a woman’s natural hormone production.
Are there specific EDCs that women should be cautious of?
Marla Ahlgrimm: There are many, yes. BPA, for example, which is found in many plastic bottles, may have an effect on a woman’s menstrual cycle. It’s theorized that BPA might even increase a woman’s risk of endometriosis and certain cancers.
