If you’re pregnant, trying to conceive, or planning to grow your family in the future, you’re likely already focused on doing everything you can to create a healthy environment. From nutrition to prenatal care, every choice matters. But one hidden factor that often goes overlooked? Your tap water.
Growing research shows that PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)—commonly referred to as “forever chemicals”—may be linked to birth defects and other complications during pregnancy. These chemicals can be found in drinking water across the country, and many families don’t even know they’ve been exposed.
In this blog, we’ll explore what PFAS are, how they can impact fetal development, and what you can do to reduce your risk—starting with home water testing through TestPFAST.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s in products like:
- Nonstick cookware
- Water-repellent clothing
- Fast food wrappers
- Stain-resistant fabrics
- Firefighting foam
They’re known for their extreme durability, which is useful in manufacturing but harmful in the environment. These chemicals don’t break down easily, which is why they’re often called “forever chemicals.” They accumulate in soil, water, and even our bodies over time.
Are PFAS Linked to Birth Defects?
The short answer: emerging research suggests they could be.
Studies have begun to explore how PFAS exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of certain birth defects and complications.
What the Science Says
A study published in Reproductive Toxicology found that prenatal exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)—a type of PFAS—was associated with a higher risk of major birth defects in lab models, suggesting a biological mechanism that could be relevant to human health.
Read the study on ScienceDirect
Another 2021 study published in Environment International examined congenital heart defects (CHDs) in infants and found that maternal exposure to certain PFAS compounds during early pregnancy was linked to increased risk of CHDs.
Additionally, PFAS exposure has been linked to:
- Low birth weight
- Preterm birth
- Gestational hypertension
- Disruption in fetal hormone regulation
While more research is still ongoing, these studies raise significant concerns—especially for families who may be unknowingly drinking contaminated water.
How PFAS Get Into Your Drinking Water
PFAS contamination can come from:
- Industrial manufacturing runoff
- Use of firefighting foams at airports or military bases
- Leaching from landfills into groundwater
- Agricultural or wastewater runoff
And because PFAS are invisible, odorless, and tasteless, you won’t know they’re in your water unless you test for them.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, nearly half of all U.S. tap water is estimated to contain detectable levels of PFAS.
Read more on usgs.gov
Why This Matters for Pregnancy and Fetal Development
During pregnancy, your baby’s organs, brain, and body systems are rapidly developing. PFAS chemicals can cross the placenta, potentially interfering with:
- Hormonal signaling
- Cardiovascular development
- Immune system function
- Organ formation
Because PFAS can accumulate in your body over time, it’s not just current exposure that matters—it’s also past, unmonitored exposure through something as routine as drinking tap water.
What Are the Symptoms of PFAS Exposure?
Unfortunately, PFAS exposure often produces no immediate symptoms, which is why it can go undetected for years. That said, long-term PFAS exposure has been linked to:
- Fertility challenges
- High blood pressure during pregnancy
- Miscarriage risk
- Elevated cholesterol
- Hormonal imbalances
And in the case of pregnancy, there’s concern that the developing fetus is even more vulnerable than adults to PFAS’ effects.
Should You Test Your Water?
If you’re pregnant, trying to conceive, or have young children at home, yes. Testing your home’s water for PFAS is one of the most practical, proactive steps you can take to protect your family.
You should especially consider testing if:
- You live near an airport, military base, or industrial zone
- You rely on well water or live in a rural area
- You haven’t seen a recent PFAS report from your municipality
- You want to rule out water-based environmental risks for pregnancy or early childhood
TestPFAST: Easy, Reliable Home Water Testing for PFAS
At TestPFAST, we believe you deserve to know what’s in your water. Our at-home PFAS testing kits are simple, science-backed, and designed for families who want clarity—without waiting on government reports or navigating complex lab systems.
How it works:
- Order your kit at TestPFAST.com
- Collect a sample using our easy instructions
- Send it back in the prepaid envelope
- Get accurate lab results within a few days
If PFAS are detected, you’ll get a detailed breakdown of what was found—and guidance on next steps, like filtration or ongoing monitoring.
What To Do If PFAS Are Found in Your Water
If your results come back with detectable levels of PFAS, don’t panic. There are effective, proven ways to reduce your exposure:
- Install a certified water filter (e.g., reverse osmosis or activated carbon systems)
- Use filtered or bottled water for drinking and cooking
- Retest periodically to ensure your filter is working
- If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, talk to your healthcare provider about PFAS exposure and how to minimize risks
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PFAS really cause birth defects?
While research is still ongoing, several studies have found associations between prenatal PFAS exposure and certain birth defects, particularly heart defects and low birth weight.
Are babies and children more at risk from PFAS?
Yes. Developing fetuses, infants, and young children are more vulnerable to environmental toxins like PFAS due to their small size, developing organs, and immature immune systems.
What’s the safe level of PFAS in water?
The EPA has proposed limits as low as 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for some PFAS compounds. Even small amounts above this threshold may pose health risks.
How do I know if my home has PFAS in the water?
The only way to know for sure is to test your water, especially if you live in an area with known contamination or haven’t received updated municipal water reports.
Final Thoughts: Your Family’s Health Starts with Clean Water
Every expecting parent wants to provide the safest, healthiest start possible. Testing your water for PFAS is one simple but powerful step to protect not only your own health—but your baby’s future, too.
With TestPFAST, you don’t have to wonder or wait.
You can take action today.
👉 Order your PFAS water testing kit now at TestPFAST.com