Glyphosate Found in Pregnant Women's Bodies in the Midwest

Pregnant women in the Midwestern U.S. have measurable levels of glyphosate in their bodies. And those levels are linked to how their pregnancies turn out.

Weed Killer in Pregnant Women

A 2026 study in Int J Hyg Environ Health measured concentrations of glyphosate and its breakdown product AMPA in pregnant women from the Midwestern U.S. and looked at associations with birth outcomes. The Midwest is the heart of American agriculture, where glyphosate is sprayed heavily on corn, soy, and other crops.

The study found associations between glyphosate/AMPA levels and birth outcomes. These are women living in farming communities, drinking local water, eating local food, and absorbing the most popular herbicide on Earth.

How Pregnant Women Get Exposed

Glyphosate is the active ingredient in Roundup. It's sprayed on crops, lawns, roadsides, and parks. It gets into drinking water, food (especially grains and legumes), and air near treated fields. AMPA, its breakdown product, is equally persistent.

What You Can Do

If you're pregnant, especially in agricultural areas, filter your drinking water. Buy organic grains, oats, and legumes (these crops get the heaviest glyphosate treatment). Avoid spending time near recently sprayed fields. Check out non-toxic baby products for a cleaner start for your family.

Also see glass food storage for safer alternatives.

Source: Morris et al. (2026). Int J Hyg Environ Health.