How Your Toothpaste Might Be Destroying Your Sperm

Parabens act like endocrine disruptors, the researchers believe. That means they interfere with your normal hormone process, or even trigger inappropriate hormone activity. This can affect testosterone levels and sperm production, possibly causing you to have trouble getting your partner pregnant.

Problem is, parabens are found in many personal care and grooming products, like toothpastes, sunscreens, lotions, face washes, hand soaps, shampoos and conditioners. And it’s not quite clear yet how much of it can be harmful—more research must be done to give more clarity on the link before any firm recommendations can be made.

In the meantime, if you are worried about your sperm, take a look at the label for your personal care products. Butylparaben, ethylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben and propylparaben are among the most common you’d see listed.