Triclosan
Synthetic antibacterial agent
🟠 Some signals exist (animal studies, small human studies) but results are conflicting and the scientific community is still debating them.
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In brief
triclosan and fertility: this page reviews Triclosan (Synthetic antibacterial agent) — documented mechanism, everyday exposure situations and possible alternatives. Level of evidence: Emerging / debated.
- Where it's found
- Some toothpastes, "antibacterial" soaps and gels, deodorants, mouthwashes.
- Suspected mechanism
- Suspected interference with thyroid hormones, which help regulate the menstrual cycle and spermatogenesis.
- Suggested alternative
- An ordinary soap cleans just as well as an antibacterial one for everyday household use.
- Source
- SCCS; partial FDA ban (antiseptic soaps, 2016).
Frequently asked questions
Triclosan: how is it linked to infertility?
Suspected interference with thyroid hormones, which help regulate the menstrual cycle and spermatogenesis.
Where is Triclosan found in everyday life?
Some toothpastes, "antibacterial" soaps and gels, deodorants, mouthwashes.
How can exposure to Triclosan be reduced?
An ordinary soap cleans just as well as an antibacterial one for everyday household use.
What is the level of evidence for Triclosan?
Emerging / debated. Some signals exist (animal studies, small human studies) but results are conflicting and the scientific community is still debating them.
Map your everyday exposures in about ten minutes.
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Related factors
Including a factor does not mean it causes infertility: it is simply worth monitoring, depending on its level of evidence.
Content last updated: September 14, 2026