If you’re trying to conceive—or thinking about it in the near future—you’re probably already focused on things like diet, sleep, and overall health. But one thing many people don’t consider is what might be in their water. More specifically: could your tap water be affecting your ability to get pregnant?
Recent research suggests that PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances)—a class of synthetic chemicals found in many household products and in drinking water across the country—may play a role in infertility, especially among women of reproductive age.
In this post, we’ll walk you through what PFAS are, how they’re linked to fertility concerns, and what steps you can take to protect your reproductive health—including testing your home’s water with an easy-to-use kit from TestPFAST.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are human-made chemicals used since the 1940s in a variety of products, including:
- Nonstick cookware
- Water-resistant clothing
- Stain repellents
- Food packaging
- Firefighting foam
They’re known for being extremely durable—they don’t easily break down in the environment or the body. Because of this, PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals.”
Over time, PFAS can accumulate in the body through food, air, and most commonly, drinking water.
PFAS and Infertility: What the Science Is Telling Us
In recent years, scientists have begun to examine how these persistent chemicals may affect fertility—and the findings are concerning.
A 2023 study funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) found that women with higher PFAS levels in their blood were 40% less likely to become pregnant within a year.
Read the study summary from NIEHS
Dr. Damaskini Valvi, one of the study’s senior authors, shared:
“PFAS can disrupt our reproductive hormones and have been linked with delayed puberty onset and increased risks for endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome in previous studies.”
This disruption appears to affect hormone regulation—particularly estrogen and progesterone, which are crucial for ovulation, egg quality, and successful implantation.
Another review published in Environmental Research analyzed multiple studies and found that PFAS exposure was associated with:
- Longer time to pregnancy
- Changes in menstrual cycle length
- Increased risk of early miscarriage
View the review article on ScienceDirect
While more research is still underway, the evidence so far is clear: long-term exposure to PFAS can negatively impact reproductive health.
What About Male Fertility?
Although much of the focus is on women, PFAS exposure may also play a role in male infertility. Some studies have linked PFAS to:
- Lower sperm counts
- Poor sperm motility
- Altered testosterone levels
For couples trying to conceive, it’s a shared concern—and another reason to pay close attention to water quality at home.
How PFAS Get Into Your Water
PFAS make their way into drinking water supplies through various sources, including:
- Industrial waste and runoff
- Leaching from landfills
- Use of firefighting foams at military bases and airports
- Contaminated soil and groundwater
Once in the water supply, PFAS can travel long distances and remain for decades, contaminating municipal systems and private wells alike.
Why This Matters When You’re Trying to Conceive
If you’re actively trying to get pregnant or preparing for fertility treatments, the presence of PFAS in your water could be a hidden barrier. Because these chemicals can accumulate over time, even small exposures through unfiltered drinking water can gradually build up in the body.
And when your fertility window feels limited, unknown environmental factors like PFAS exposure can add unnecessary stress to an already emotional process.
The good news is: this is something you can take control of.
Signs You Might Have PFAS in Your Water
PFAS are invisible—they have no smell, no taste, and don’t change the appearance of your water. But here are some situations where testing might be especially important:
- You live near a military base, airport, or industrial facility
- You rely on well water or live in a rural area
- Your local municipality hasn’t shared recent PFAS testing results
- You’ve experienced irregular cycles or unexplained fertility issues
- You want to rule out environmental contributors to infertility
Why Home Testing Matters
Because PFAS are not always part of routine water testing by municipalities, you could be drinking contaminated water without even knowing it. That’s why home water testing kits, like the ones from TestPFAST, can be such a valuable tool—especially for families planning for the future.
TestPFAST: Simple, Accurate PFAS Testing at Home
At TestPFAST, we know how important it is to have clear, trustworthy answers—especially when it comes to your health and fertility. That’s why we’ve created easy-to-use water testing kits that empower you to take charge of your environment.
Here’s how it works:
- Order your kit online at TestPFAST.com
- Collect your water sample using simple, step-by-step instructions
- Send it back in the prepaid mailer
- Receive accurate results from a certified lab within just a few days
If PFAS are detected, you’ll receive clear guidance on what was found and your options for reducing exposure.
What If Your Water Tests Positive for PFAS?
If PFAS are found in your drinking water, you’re not alone—and there are effective steps you can take:
- Install a certified filtration system, like reverse osmosis or activated carbon
- Use bottled water for drinking and cooking while transitioning
- Retest your water after installing a filter to ensure it’s working
- Speak to your healthcare provider if you’re actively trying to conceive, especially if you’ve had fertility challenges
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PFAS really affect fertility?
Yes. Studies from NIEHS and other research groups have shown that PFAS exposure can lower the likelihood of pregnancy, affect menstrual cycles, and disrupt key reproductive hormones.
Are men affected, too?
Yes—PFAS exposure has been associated with reduced sperm quality and altered hormone levels in men.
Is there a safe level of PFAS in water?
The EPA has proposed limits as low as 4 parts per trillion (ppt) for certain PFAS compounds. Many water systems exceed this level—especially those using groundwater sources.
Can I test my own water?
Yes! With a TestPFAST home testing kit, you can easily test your water and get certified lab results—no guesswork, no waiting on your city.
A Final Word: You Deserve Clarity
Trying to conceive is a deeply personal journey—full of hope, patience, and at times, frustration. The last thing you need is uncertainty about something as essential as your water.
By testing your home water for PFAS with TestPFAST, you can take one small but important step toward creating a healthier environment—for your body, your future pregnancy, and your peace of mind.
Order your PFAS test today at TestPFAST.com and find out what’s really in your water.