Do chemicals in everyday products affect having babies?
The effects of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances on female fertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Only PFOA and PFOS showed significant links to fertility issues, while other similar 'forever chemicals' did not.
Given their chemical similarity, many would expect all PFAS to behave the same way in the body. The fact that PFNA, PFDA, and PFHxS showed no sufficient evidence of harm suggests specificity in biological impact.
Practical Takeaways
Reduce use of non-stick cookware, grease-resistant food packaging, and stain-treated fabrics to lower exposure to PFOA and PFOS.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Only PFOA and PFOS showed significant links to fertility issues, while other similar 'forever chemicals' did not.
Given their chemical similarity, many would expect all PFAS to behave the same way in the body. The fact that PFNA, PFDA, and PFHxS showed no sufficient evidence of harm suggests specificity in biological impact.
Practical Takeaways
Reduce use of non-stick cookware, grease-resistant food packaging, and stain-treated fabrics to lower exposure to PFOA and PFOS.
Publication
Journal
Environmental research
Year
2022
Authors
Wen Wang, X. Hong, Fanqi Zhao, Jingying Wu, Bei Wang
Related Content
Claims (4)
These man-made chemicals stick around in the environment and in our bodies, and they might be harming our health — possibly leading to problems like trouble having kids, birth issues, liver disease, weak immune systems, and even cancer.
If a woman is exposed to a chemical called PFOS, she might have a slightly harder time getting pregnant, based on studies of women’s health data.
If women are exposed to more PFOA — a chemical found in some non-stick and waterproof products — they may have a harder time getting pregnant and are more likely to be diagnosed with infertility.
We don't have enough solid proof to say that being exposed to certain chemicals (PFNA, PFDA, or PFHxS) affects a woman's ability to get pregnant.