BPS and Other Bisphenols Linked to Fetal Chromosome Problems
NonToxCo Research
Science & Safety Team · 4/7/2026
Three bisphenol chemicals, BPS, BPZ, and BPAF, were individually linked to increased risk of fetal chromosomal number abnormalities, including Down syndrome. These are BPA replacements that are supposed to be safer.
What the Study Found
A 2026 study in J Environ Sci measured bisphenols and metals in the urine of pregnant women with high-risk pregnancies. They analyzed the connection to chromosomal number abnormalities (CNA) in the fetus.
BPS, BPZ, BPAF, antimony, and vanadium were each associated with higher CNA risk. BPS, BPZ, and BPAF were specifically linked to increased Down syndrome risk. Combined bisphenol and metal exposure raised the risk further in multi-pollutant models.
Protective Minerals Exist
Not all metals were harmful. Manganese, iron, copper, nickel, and zinc were associated with lower CNA risk. Zinc specifically was linked to reduced Down syndrome risk. This suggests adequate mineral nutrition during pregnancy may offer some protection.
The Bisphenol Problem
BPS replaced BPA. BPZ and BPAF are other substitutes showing up in products. None were adequately tested before entering the market. Now they're linked to one of the most serious possible pregnancy outcomes: chromosomal abnormalities in the developing baby.
How to Protect Your Pregnancy
Avoid all bisphenol-containing plastics. Use glass or stainless steel. Take prenatal vitamins with zinc and other essential minerals. Eat a nutrient-rich diet. Check out non-toxic baby products for safer alternatives during pregnancy.
Also see glass food storage for safer alternatives.