PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used for decades in nonstick pans, waterproof clothing, food packaging, and industrial applications. They are often called “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment and in our bodies. Even as older, long-chain PFAS have been phased out, new short-chain replacements are showing evidence of harm.
For fertility, this means exposure may not only affect eggs and sperm but also early pregnancy itself.
Several new studies published in 2024–2025 are drawing stronger connections between PFAS exposure and adverse reproductive outcomes.
- A 2025 case-control study in China found that women with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion had higher serum levels of PFAS compared with healthy controls, suggesting a significant association with pregnancy loss (Cheng et al. 2025).
- Another environmental-wide association study demonstrated links between PFAS and pregnancy loss in Northwest China, underscoring that the risk extends to community-level exposure, not just occupational settings (Liu et al. 2025).
- A Shanghai study specifically examined missed miscarriages and again found increased risk associated with PFAS exposure (Wang et al. 2024).
- A 2025 review summarized the growing body of evidence, concluding that both long- and short-chain PFAS disrupt hormone signaling, damage ovarian and placental function, and contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss (Ajana, Rachoń, and Gałęzowska 2025).
Taken together, these findings suggest that PFAS are a hidden, but very real, factor in infertility and miscarriage.
When we think about optimizing fertility, we often focus on lifestyle, nutrition, and supplements. But the environment around us plays a critical role. For couples with unexplained infertility or repeated pregnancy losses, PFAS exposure may be an overlooked piece of the puzzle.
This is especially concerning because PFAS are widespread and affect not only those in high-exposure industries but also the general population through water, food, and consumer products.
While no one can eliminate PFAS completely, research supports taking steps to reduce exposure:
- Filter your water: Use reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters certified to remove PFAS.
- Choose cookware wisely: Opt for stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic instead of nonstick.
- Watch food packaging: Limit take-out containers and microwave popcorn bags that often contain PFAS.
- Check your cosmetics: Look for “PFAS-free” products, especially in waterproof makeup.
- Minimize dust: Vacuum with a HEPA filter, since PFAS accumulate in household dust.
These small, actionable changes can reduce your daily burden of PFAS and support both fertility and long-term health.
The fertility crisis is about more than delayed childbearing—it is also about environmental toxins undermining our ability to conceive and carry pregnancies. Raising awareness of PFAS and taking practical steps at the individual level is vital, but policy and regulation will ultimately be needed to drive lasting change.
- Cheng, Qianxi, Chunxian Lv, Yawei Li, Haocan Song, Shuyao Li, Dandan Li, Yingying Han, Feng Zhao, and Qiang Lin. “Association between Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Unexplained Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion: A Case-Control Study in China.” Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety 301 (August 2025): 118496. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.118496.
- Liu, Ling, Cai Liu, Wei Zhang, and Fang Wang. “Assessing the Impact of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances on Pregnancy Loss: An Environmental-Wide Association Study in Northwest China.” International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health 266 (May 2025): 114568. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114568.
- Wang, Bin, Wei Hong, Zhen Wu, and Xia Li. “Association between Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Missed Miscarriage: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study in Shanghai, China.” Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology 112 (December 2024): 104589. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.etap.2024.104589.
- Ajana, Robinson, Dominik Rachoń, and Grażyna Gałęzowska. “Reproductive Toxicity of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances.” Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology 117 (August 2025): 104740. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.etap.2025.104740.
Dr Marina OBGYN