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PFAS Exposure During Pregnancy

Parents

New research shows that exposure to PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” during pregnancy may lead to high blood pressure in children during their teenage years. "This study helps raise awareness of the dangers of PFAS and allows [parents] to take action to stop or reduce exposure, including using alternative water sources and reducing the use of nonstick pots and utensils," said Sasha Andrews, M.D., a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Obstetrix® of Colorado, part of Pediatrix® Medical Group. There are several health implications of PFAS. "Elevated levels of PFAS in pregnancy have been associated with pregnancy loss, fetal structural abnormalities, and reduced birth weight," said Dr. Andrews. "Some, but not all, human studies have associated high levels of PFAS with an increased risk for preeclampsia and low birth weight. And, high PFAS levels have been linked to thyroid dysfunction, so it is recommended that pregnant women who are at risk undergo thyroid function testing."

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