Women exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), endocrine disruptors present in textiles or kitchen utensils, are more likely to stop breastfeeding prematurely.
- Omnipresent in everyday objects and furniture, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are endocrine disruptors.
- Women with high levels of PFAS in their body are 20% more likely to stop breastfeeding prematurely.
Is there a link between duration of breastfeeding and exposure to endocrine disruptors?
This is what appears to be demonstrated by a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism of the Endocrine Society. According to its authors, women whose bodies have high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are 20% more likely to stop breastfeeding prematurely.
Pervasive endocrine disruptors
Comprising nearly 4,500 distinct compounds, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are chemicals widely used for their non-stick or stain-repellent properties. Persistent and mobile, PFAS are found in large quantities in common products such as kitchen utensils, carpets and textiles. They are also found in many packaging and boxes. Classified as a recognized endocrine disruptor, these substances do not break down when released into the environment and continue to build up over time. Several studies have already shown that PFAS can affect reproductive health at the time of puberty, in women of childbearing age but also in men.
Breastfeeding disturbed by exposure to PFAS?
The researchers analyzed blood samples for PFAS and prolactin levels in 1,286 pregnant women from the Odense Children’s Cohort. Women provided information on breastfeeding duration in weekly text messages or questionnaires 3 and 18 months postpartum. The results show that women with higher levels of PFAS in their bodies were 20% more likely to stop breastfeeding early.
“Our findings are important because nearly every human on the planet is exposed to PFAS. These man-made chemicals accumulate in our bodies and have adverse effects on reproductive health, explains Clara Amalie Gade Timmermann, first author of the study and also assistant professor at the University of Southern Denmark in Copenhagen. Unwanted early weaning has traditionally been attributed to psychological factors, which are undoubtedly important, but we hope our research will help shift the focus and highlight that not all mothers can breastfeed despite good intentions and support from family and healthcare professionals.”
“Breastfeeding is crucial for the health of both child and mother, the negative effects of PDAS on the ability to breastfeed may have long-term health consequences”concludes the researcher.
