By Lisa Edmondson, Nurse | Master Health Coach and Hormonal Specialist
Hormonal balance is the cornerstone of women’s health—yet for many, that balance feels increasingly difficult to maintain. Irregular cycles, PMS, fatigue, fertility challenges, and early signs of perimenopause are becoming more common. While stress, nutrition, and genetics all play their part, a growing body of research and clinical observation points to something often overlooked: our everyday environment.
As women, we’re bombarded with products designed to beautify, scent, soften, and cleanse. But many of these come at a cost. Hidden inside makeup, perfumes, deodorants, and shampoos are chemicals that have the power to interfere with our endocrine system—the delicate network of glands and hormones that regulate everything from ovulation to metabolism.
Here in New Zealand, many popular brands still use phthalates and parabens, despite international warnings. These substances are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they mimic or interfere with the body’s natural hormones—most notably estrogen. Over time, this disruption can contribute to conditions such as estrogen dominance, fibroids, endometriosis, thyroid imbalance, and even certain breast cancers.
Perfume is a prime example. Synthetic fragrances contain dozens, sometimes hundreds, of undisclosed ingredients—many of which are derived from petrochemicals. In our clinical work, we’ve seen a clear pattern between regular use of conventional perfumes and symptoms like heavy, painful periods, migraines, and breast tenderness. Some women store their phones down the front of their tops or in their sports bras while walking or exercising, exposing breast tissue to low-level EMF and heat—a practice that has raised concern among holistic practitioners and researchers alike.
Skin care and makeup are another major source of chemical exposure. With each application, women may be absorbing substances like formaldehyde releasers, toluene, oxybenzone, and BHA/BHT—all of which have been linked to hormonal disruption and reproductive toxicity. These exposures are often compounded by the use of conventional shampoos and conditioners, body washes, and even feminine hygiene products.
Household products also play a silent role. Conventional laundry powders and softeners are designed for scent and softness—not safety. They often contain optical brighteners, artificial fragrances, and benzyl acetate—all of which are absorbed through the skin or inhaled daily. Non-organic sheets and synthetic undergarments can trap and release these chemicals overnight, especially when worn against sensitive hormone-regulating areas like the breasts, ovaries, and thyroid.
In our work, we never suggest perfection or pressure. Most women are doing the best they can with the knowledge they have and the products available. But awareness changes everything. Once you know how pervasive these chemicals are, you can begin making small, manageable changes—swapping one product at a time, choosing fragrance-free or natural alternatives, and prioritising organic materials where possible.
At our clinic, we use epigenetic hair testing to uncover what’s truly influencing your hormonal landscape—from toxic exposures to nutritional imbalances. This gives us a clear, personalised map of where to begin. We also support clients with ozone and oxygen therapies to assist the body in releasing stored toxins and rebalancing cellular function. Alongside this, we provide practitioner-only supplements designed to restore hormonal pathways, improve detoxification, and support adrenal resilience.
Hormonal harmony isn’t a luxury—it’s your birthright. And while we may not be able to control every exposure, we can create an environment inside and outside the body that supports balance, clarity, and vitality.
You don’t have to do it all at once. You just need to begin. And we’re here to walk that journey with you.
Looking for Personalised Support?
I offer 1:1 coaching programs to help you track your cycle, balance your hormones naturally, and prepare your body for conception and pregnancy. With tailored plans, lab testing guidance, and emotional support, you’re never alone on this journey.
Let’s make motherhood a reality—for you.
With love and belief in your body,
Lisa Edmondson
Master Holistic Health Coach
Female Hormone and Health Specialist
BHSNursing, PGDipPH, PGDipEducation, Masters Health Coaching