Reduce avoidable exposures before and during pregnancy

Development before and during pregnancy can be sensitive to some environmental exposures. How quickly a substance leaves the body varies from hours for some chemicals to years for persistent PFAS. This page covers practical exposure-reduction steps without replacing medical care.

Start here

The five changes that make the biggest difference. In order.

1. 1

   Replace personal care products with fragrance-free versions

   Repeated use can contribute to exposure to fragrance ingredients. Absorption depends on the substance, concentration, formulation, skin condition, and contact time.

2. 2

   Choose a fragrance-free deodorant if your skin tolerates it

   Fragrance can irritate sensitive skin. Evidence does not show that antiperspirants cause breast cancer, so aluminum-free products are a preference rather than a medical requirement.

3. 3

   Glass food storage, no microwaved plastic

   BPA and phthalates migrate from plastic into food faster with heat and fat. Simple mechanical swap, measurable body burden reduction.

4. 4

   Filter your drinking water

   A carbon block at minimum. Reverse osmosis if you have known PFAS or are near industrial or military sites.

5. 5

   Cast iron or stainless cookware

   Damaged non-stick coatings can shed PTFE particles, while severe overheating creates a separate fume hazard. Replace badly damaged cookware and avoid preheating non-stick pans empty.

Most relevant chemicals

What matters most for your situation, and why. Each links to a deeper guide.

Guides and articles

Where to focus in your home

Products curated for you

Each category has budget, mid-range and premium picks. Affiliate links support the site at no cost to you.