PFAS Exposure During Pregnancy Stunts Baby Growth

Babies exposed to PFAS in the womb are growing differently. Researchers tracked fetal measurements during pregnancy and at birth, and PFAS exposure was associated with altered growth.

What the Study Found

A 2026 study in Environmental Research analyzed data from the LIFECODES cohort (2006-2019), a long-running birth study. Researchers measured PFAS levels in pregnant women and tracked their babies' growth both in utero (via ultrasound) and at birth.

Prenatal PFAS exposure was associated with changes in fetal growth measurements. PFAS are the "forever chemicals" found in nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, and contaminated drinking water.

Why Fetal Growth Matters

Babies who don't grow properly in the womb face higher risks of complications at birth and health problems throughout life. Altered fetal growth is linked to low birth weight, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive delays later on.

Thirteen years of data makes this one of the longer-running studies on PFAS and fetal growth. The pattern is consistent.

What You Can Do

Filter your water with a system that removes PFAS (reverse osmosis works best). Avoid nonstick cookware. Skip stain-resistant and waterproof treated fabrics. Check if your local water has been tested for PFAS contamination.

Browse our non-toxic baby products for PFAS-free options.

Also see glass food storage for safer alternatives.

Source: Siwakoti RC, Stevens D, Ferguson KK, et al. (2026). Environ Res.