Pregnant moms' exposure to certain 'forever chemicals' (PFOS, PFOA, PFNA) doesn't seem to affect their kids' behavior problems — like anxiety, aggression, or overall emotional issues — as they grow up to age 15.

What we've found so far suggests that prenatal exposure to certain "forever chemicals" — specifically PFOS, PFOA, and PFNA — may not be linked to behavioral problems in children as they grow up to age 15. Our current analysis of the available research shows no evidence of a connection with issues like anxiety, aggression, or broader emotional difficulties. We analyzed the data from 62.0 studies or assertions, all of which support the idea that exposure to these chemicals during pregnancy does not appear to influence behavioral outcomes in children by age 15 [1]. No studies in our review refuted this. That means, based on what we've reviewed so far, the evidence consistently leans toward no observable link between prenatal exposure to PFOS, PFOA, and PFNA and later behavioral problems. Still, we want to be clear: this is our analysis of the evidence available to us right now. Science evolves, and future findings could change how we understand this topic. We’re not saying there is definitely no link — just that what we’ve seen so far doesn’t support one. It’s also important to note that "forever chemicals" are a broad group, and our analysis only covers PFOS, PFOA, and PFNA in relation to behavioral issues up to age 15. Other health effects or developmental areas were not part of this specific review. Practical takeaway: If you're expecting or planning a pregnancy, the evidence we’ve reviewed so far doesn’t show that exposure to these specific chemicals affects your child’s behavior as they grow through childhood and into their mid-teens. But staying informed as new research emerges is still a good idea.