How do flame retardants in textiles affect thyroid function and fertility?

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardant chemicals applied to many synthetic fabrics, especially those used in sleepwear, children's clothing, and upholstered furniture. PBDEs are potent thyroid disruptors that interfere with thyroid hormone production and metabolism. Because thyroid hormones regulate the entire reproductive cascade, from menstrual cycle regularity to ovulation timing to early embryo development, PBDE exposure can impair fertility through multiple pathways.

In women, thyroid disruption from PBDEs can cause irregular cycles, anovulation, and difficulty maintaining early pregnancy. In men, thyroid imbalance affects testosterone metabolism and sperm maturation. PBDEs are lipophilic and bioaccumulative, meaning they build up in fatty tissue over years of exposure. They also cross the placental barrier, exposing developing fetuses to thyroid-disrupting chemicals during the most sensitive windows of organ development.

Sleepwear and bedding deserve special attention because you spend roughly a third of your life in contact with these textiles. Many conventional sleepwear products are treated with flame retardants even when not legally required. ONDU curates sleepwear and bedding brands that use naturally flame-resistant fibers like merino wool or untreated organic cotton, so you can meet safety needs without chemical flame retardant exposure.