Pfas fertility

Forever Chemicals and Fertility: What Women Need to Know | PFAS

Imagine unknowingly ingesting chemicals every day that could disrupt your hormones and fertility. These so-called “forever chemicals,” known as PFAS, are found in many everyday products—and they’re notoriously slow to leave your body.

Understanding PFAS: A Quick Overview

Back in 1938, chemist Roy J. Plunkett accidentally created Teflon—the first of a large group of chemicals called PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These compounds are celebrated for being water- and grease-repellent, so you’ll see them in countless everyday items like non-stick pans, waterproof jackets, food packaging, and even certain cosmetics.

The problem? PFAS hardly break down in the environment or inside our bodies. They can accumulate in water, soil, and even the air we breathe—making their way into the bloodstream of most people worldwide. Recent research increasingly points to PFAS interfering with women’s reproductive health, especially hormonal function, immunity, and pregnancy-related processes.

Why Women Should Take Notice

Women of reproductive age face unique risks, especially when it comes to hormonal balance and fertility. Research shows that PFAS can accumulate differently in women compared to men, partly because of hormone fluctuations, menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding (Li et al., 2025). These unique pathways can increase PFAS exposure or alter how quickly these chemicals leave your body.

In particular, hormone-related processes, such as the balance of oestrogen and progesterone, may be disrupted by PFAS. A 2023 study (Brown et al.) revealed that PFAS exposure is associated with decreased estradiol and earlier menopause, although it didn’t appear to significantly affect ovarian reserve. Nonetheless, lower oestrogen levels and altered menopause timing can impact overall fertility, underscoring the importance of staying informed and taking steps to minimise exposure.

What PFAS Can Do to Your Reproductive Health

  1. How PFAS Disrupt Your Hormones
    • PFAS may interfere with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, the critical hormonal signalling pathway that regulates ovulation, menstrual cycles, and overall reproductive function (Li et al., 2025).
    • These hormonal disruptions may lead to irregular cycles, reduced fertility, or earlier menopause.
  2. Pregnancy Risks
    • Some PFAS have been linked with pregnancy-related complications such as pre-eclampsia and reduced birth weight, though research is ongoing.
    • Because these chemicals can persist in the body for years, long-term exposure might have cumulative effects that could influence pregnancy outcomes down the track.
  3. Fertility Outcomes
    Beyond hormonal disruptions and pregnancy risks, emerging evidence indicates that PFAS exposure can directly impact fertility. The Singaporean study (Cohen et al., 2023) observed that women with higher levels of PFAS in their blood experienced markedly reduced chances of both clinical pregnancy and live birth. And especially the cumulative exposure to multiple PFAS may compound to difficulties on the road to parenthood.
  4. Could PFAS Worsen Autoimmune Disorders and affect fertility?
    • Autoimmune disorders—conditions that disproportionately affect women—may also be exacerbated by PFAS. Emerging data suggest that immune markers related to autoimmune diseases could be influenced by these chemicals (Li et al., 2025).
    • More studies are needed, but women with underlying autoimmune conditions or a family history of them may want to be extra cautious about PFAS exposure.

Practical Tips to Reduce Exposure to Forever Chemicals

While completely avoiding PFAS is tough, small lifestyle tweaks can help—especially if you’re focused on fertility and long-term health.

  1. Skip PFAS-Lined Food Packaging
    • Greaseproof wrappers, pizza boxes, and microwave popcorn bags often contain PFAS. Opt for fresh or home-cooked meals when you can.
  2. Invest in a Good Water Filter
    • PFAS has been found in urban water in NZ, and even in the rain water. Activated carbon, anion exchange resin or reverse osmosis filters may help capture some of these chemicals. A recent study found that both activated carbon and anion exchange filters can reduce PFAS in water, but each method has different strengths depending on PFAS type (Chow et al. 2022).
  3. Avoid Non-Essential Stain-Resistant or Water-Repellent Products
    • Many carpets, fabrics, and outdoor clothing are treated with PFAS to make them stain- or water-resistant. If possible, choose untreated or PFAS-free versions.
  4. Check Product Labels
    • Look for “PFAS-free” or “PFOA-free” options, especially for cosmetics, personal care items, and non-stick cookware.
  5. Ventilate Your Home
    • PFAS particles can end up in household dust. Regular vacuuming (with a HEPA filter) and opening windows for fresh air circulation can cut down on indoor pollutants.
  6. Follow Up with Healthcare Providers
    • If you suspect heavy PFAS exposure and have concerns about fertility or reproductive health, consider speaking with a specialist. Personalised guidance can be especially helpful if you’re worried about reproductive ageing, autoimmune conditions, or other ongoing health issues.

By becoming more aware and making small changes in your daily habits, you can take control of your health and reduce your exposure.


Looking Ahead

Research into PFAS and similar “forever chemicals” is evolving quickly, but one message is already clear: PFAS may pose a significant risk to women’s fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and overall wellbeing. While we still need more studies to fully understand the precise mechanisms, current evidence supports taking steps now to limit your exposure. By staying informed and making small, deliberate changes, you can better protect your health—and your future.