New Research Links “Forever Chemicals” to Reduced Fertility, Pregnancy Complications
April 7, 2026
For Immediate Release
Study finds growing evidence that PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” may reduce fertility, increase risk of preeclampsia, contribute to preterm birth
Washington, DC—F&S Reviews, an official journal of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), has published a new narrative review examining how exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may affect female fertility, pregnancy, and birth outcomes. The study finds that PFAS can cross critical physiological barriers and accumulate in reproductive tissues, raising concerns about potential risks before, during, and after pregnancy.
PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are a large class of synthetic compounds that do not easily break down in the environment or the human body. Since the 1940s, these chemicals have been widely used in products such as firefighting foams, stain- and water-resistant coatings, non-stick cookware, and food packaging. According to the CDC, nearly all people in the United States have detectable levels of PFAS in their blood. Their chemical stability, which makes them commercially useful, also allows them to accumulate in the body over time, prompting the growing concern about their impact on reproductive health.
Key findings include:
These findings highlight the importance of reducing exposure to PFAS during the reproductive years,” the authors write. “Given the persistence of these chemicals and their ability to accumulate in reproductive tissues, prevention strategies and stronger environmental safeguards are critical to protecting maternal and infant health.”
The authors also note that newer replacement PFAS chemicals do not consistently appear less hazardous than legacy compounds. The review highlights the risk of “regrettable substitution,” in which structurally modified chemicals are introduced without sufficient evidence that they are safer. The authors call for outcome-based safety evaluation, class-based regulatory approaches, and additional research into mixture effects and paternal exposure.
Read the review in full here
For Immediate Release
Study finds growing evidence that PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” may reduce fertility, increase risk of preeclampsia, contribute to preterm birth
Washington, DC—F&S Reviews, an official journal of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), has published a new narrative review examining how exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may affect female fertility, pregnancy, and birth outcomes. The study finds that PFAS can cross critical physiological barriers and accumulate in reproductive tissues, raising concerns about potential risks before, during, and after pregnancy.
PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are a large class of synthetic compounds that do not easily break down in the environment or the human body. Since the 1940s, these chemicals have been widely used in products such as firefighting foams, stain- and water-resistant coatings, non-stick cookware, and food packaging. According to the CDC, nearly all people in the United States have detectable levels of PFAS in their blood. Their chemical stability, which makes them commercially useful, also allows them to accumulate in the body over time, prompting the growing concern about their impact on reproductive health.
Key findings include:
- PFAS are repeatedly detected in reproductive tissues, including follicular and amniotic fluid, placental tissue, and breast milk.
- Preconception exposure is linked to reduced fertility, including diminished ovarian reserve, hormonal disruption, and poorer outcomes in assisted reproductive technology (ART).
- During pregnancy, PFAS exposure is associated with serious complications, including preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and preterm birth.
- Exposure has been linked to complex reproductive disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis.
These findings highlight the importance of reducing exposure to PFAS during the reproductive years,” the authors write. “Given the persistence of these chemicals and their ability to accumulate in reproductive tissues, prevention strategies and stronger environmental safeguards are critical to protecting maternal and infant health.”
The authors also note that newer replacement PFAS chemicals do not consistently appear less hazardous than legacy compounds. The review highlights the risk of “regrettable substitution,” in which structurally modified chemicals are introduced without sufficient evidence that they are safer. The authors call for outcome-based safety evaluation, class-based regulatory approaches, and additional research into mixture effects and paternal exposure.
Read the review in full here
For almost a century, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has been the global leader in multidisciplinary reproductive medicine research, ethical practice, and education. ASRM impacts reproductive care and science worldwide by creating funding opportunities for advancing reproduction research and discovery, by providing evidence-based education and public health information, and by advocating for reproductive health care professionals and the patients they serve. With members in more than 100 countries, the Society is headquartered in Washington, DC, with additional operations in Birmingham, AL. www.asrm.org
For media inquiries regarding this press release contact:
Sean Tipton
ASRM Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer
E: stipton@asrm.org
Anna Hovey
Advocacy Engagement Specialist
E: ahovey@asrm.org
J. Benjamin Younger Office of Public Affairs
726 7th St. SE
Washington, DC 20003
Tel: (202) 863-2494
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The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is committed to providing patients with the highest quality information about reproductive care.
Advocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help you explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
ASRM's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) provides answers to common questions about reproductive health.
Patient Journeys
ASRM has resources and publications to help you through each stage of your journey.
State and Territory Infertility Insurance Laws
One way that ASRM works to improve access to fertility care is by advocating for insurance coverage for reproductive medicine care. All patients should have access to the care they need.
Fact Sheets and Infographics
ASRM produces a series of fact sheets and booklets on various topics related to infertility, reproductive health, and family planning. The fact sheets and booklets are available in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
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The Dobbs decision has sparked a litany of changes in state laws across the nation, and more are expected. We need your help!
Reproductive Topics
Find all the resources on a specific topic compiled onto a single page.
SART Fertility Experts Podcast
An educational project of ASRM's affiliated society, the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), this series is designed to provide up to date information about a variety of topics related to fertility testing and treatment such as IVF.
Patient Education Videos
ASRM and its affiliated society SART have made several videos to explain the sometimes difficult topics related to reproductive medicine.
Terms and Definitions
Find explanations for the meaning behind the doctor-speak you hear when trying to research reproductive medicine topics. ASRM has defined the most popular terms in easy to understand language.
Patient Stories
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Fertility in the News
ASRM Press Releases and Bulletins are published by ASRM's Office of Public Affairs to inform the world about important happenings in reproductive medicine and at ASRM.
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New Research Links “Forever Chemicals” to Reduced Fertility, Pregnancy Complications
Study finds PFAS “forever chemicals” may harm fertility, raise preeclampsia risk, and increase preterm birth, highlighting urgent reproductive health concerns. View the Press Release
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View the Patient Journey
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Optimizing Natural Fertility
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Am I Ovulating?
Ovulation is the release of an egg from a woman’s ovaries and is essential for getting pregnant. View the Fact Sheet
Abnormalities of the Female Reproductive Tract (Müllerian Anomalies)
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Diagnostic Testing for Infertility
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Evaluation of the Uterus
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Gebelik elde edememiş çiftlere, korunmasız şekilde 12 ay boyunca denemelerine rağmen gebe kalamamışlarsa fertilite testleri önerilmektedir. View the fact sheet
Kilo ve Doğurganlık
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Ovulasyon (yumurtlama), yumurtalığın içindeki folikülden bir yumurtanın salınmasıdır. View the fact sheet
Yumurtluyor muyum?
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Infertility: an Overview (booklet)
Infertility is typically defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected intercourse. View the booklet
Infertility
Infertility is the result of a disease (an interruption, cessation, or disorder of body functions, systems, or organs) of the male or female reproductive tract which prevents the conception of a child or the ability to carry a pregnancy to delivery. Watch Video
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FAQ About Infertility
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