Do PFAS in pregnancy change placental DNA methylation?
The current peer-reviewed research does not provide direct evidence that PFAS chemicals change placental DNA methylation. While other chemicals like bisphenol analogues have been linked to these changes, PFAS studies have focused on their presence in human milk.
What's actually in it
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals often used to make products resistant to water, grease, and stains. They are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down easily in the environment or the human body.
While we know these chemicals can pass to infants, a systematic review in Environ Res (2026) confirms that PFAS exposure during pregnancy and lactation leads to detectable concentrations in human milk. This means infants are being exposed to these substances during critical stages of development.
What the research says
When it comes to placental DNA methylation, the current science is still catching up. We do not have a study that directly links PFAS to changes in placental DNA methylation at this time.
However, other chemicals are known to cause these exact types of changes. A 2026 study in Environ Res found that prenatal exposure to bisphenol analogues (chemicals often used to replace BPA) is linked to placental DNA methylation at genes related to thyroid hormones. This process was shown to increase the risk of obesity in offspring later in life.
Additionally, a 2026 study in Environ Int found that exposure to parabens (chemicals used as preservatives) during early pregnancy is associated with altered DNA methylation in cord blood. While these studies focus on different chemicals, they show that prenatal exposure to common industrial substances can change how genes function in the womb.
The research at a glance
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
Shop Non-Toxic Baby