In a new study published by Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, researchers found that exposure to some PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) were linked to an increased risk of unexplained recurrent miscarriage.
In short:
- Exposure to five individual PFAS was significantly associated with an increased risk of recurring miscarriage.
- This included several short-chain PFAS, which were previously considered to be less harmful than other types of PFAS but have recently been linked to reproductive toxicity.
- Long-chain PFAS were also linked to an increased risk of recurrent miscarriage.
Key quote:
“In our study, 11 PFASs had a detection rate of over 80%, suggesting that PFASs exposure was widespread among the participants."
Why this matters:
PFAS, which are used in many everyday products, are associated with health effects including cancer, thyroid problems, liver problems, and developmental issues in babies and children. There are nearly 15,000 PFAS, and while some regulations have reduced exposure to certain types of PFAS, levels of newer versions of the chemicals (such as the short-chain PFAS examined in this study) are increasing worldwide, making it essential that chemical policies are strengthened and updated to provide comprehensive protection.
Related EHN coverage:
- PFAS exposure linked to changes in children’s brain matter
- Prenatal PFAS exposure may be linked to an increased risk of some childhood cancers
More resources: The PFAS Exchange offers educational materials on PFAS and their health effects, resources for obtaining and interpreting blood tests, maps of contaminated sites, and more.
Cheng, Qianxi et al. for Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety vol. 301. Aug 2025
