Exposure to xenoestrogens in the environment, such as BPA, can signal a stress response in the body and can impact egg quality and maturation. Here are some practical tips to best avoid the implications of BPA during conception and beyond:

• Use a stainless steel or glass water bottle.

• Take care when using plastic, even if BPA free, by choosing PP or HDPE plastic and washing by hand.

• Avoid BPA and plastic marked as PC, or with the #7 in the recycling symbol. Safer types include polypropylene (PP / #5) or high density polyethylene (HDPE / #2).

• Say no to receipts when possible.

• Packaging labeled BPA-free can still contain chemical compounds, so be mindful of any plastic-lined packaging.

• If you can't be perfect, the biggest takeaway is to avoid acid, heat, and liquid in plastic.

Expert tip: Folate from natural sources may also help with some of the negative effects of BPA, so think about adding organic berries, oranges, avocado, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and asparagus to your plate.