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Breastfeeding is a crucial stage in the journey of motherhood, offering unparalleled benefits to both mother and baby. But a growing body of research is highlighting an alarming trend: new mothers are at increased risk of shortening their breastfeeding period due to the presence of “forever chemicals.” Scientifically known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), these persistent environmental contaminants have permeated our daily lives and, even more frighteningly, our bodies. When they accumulate, they pose a significant threat to maternal health and infant nutrition, raising urgent questions about the long-term impacts of our modern, chemically saturated world.

To better understand the harmful effects of chemicals, their impact on breastfeeding, and ways to overcome the issue, the OnlyMyHealth team  spoke to Ruth Patterson, Chief Lactation Consultant, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Jayanagar, Bengaluru.

“PFAS, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals,’ are a significant public health concern. These synthetic chemicals, used in many industrial and consumer products, are known to persist in the environment and the human body,” Patterson said. Recent studies have highlighted the potential risks these chemicals pose to new mothers, especially if they are breastfeeding. In this article, we take a closer look at how PFAS may affect breastfeeding and explore strategies to address this pressing issue.

Understanding PFAS and its prevalence

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used since the 1950s in products such as nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and fire-fighting foam. They are valued across many industries for their resistance to water, oil and dirt. But these properties also contribute to their persistence in the environment and in humans, leading to widespread contamination of water sources, soil and the food chain.

Read more: Managing Mastitis in Breastfeeding Women: Experts Share Effective Tips

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1. Hormonal disruption: “PFAS can interfere with the endocrine system, which regulates the production and secretion of hormones. Hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin play an important role in the production and secretion of breast milk,” says Patterson. Disruption of these hormones can reduce your milk supply and affect your ability to breastfeed. 

2. Impaired immune system:  PFAS exposure has been linked to impaired immune system function. “A new mother’s immune system may be weakened, putting her at increased risk for infection and inflammation, which could make breastfeeding more difficult,” Patterson says. 

3. Direct effects on breast tissue: Studies have shown that PFAS can accumulate in breast tissue and interfere with the development and function of mammary glands. This can impair the body’s ability to produce and secrete sufficient amounts of breast milk. 

Newborn health status

Infants who are breastfed by mothers who have ingested high levels of PFAS may also be at risk: PFAS can be passed to infants through breast milk and can have adverse health effects on the infant, including developmental disabilities, weakened immune responses, and susceptibility to chronic diseases later in life.

Read more: What are the common challenges new mothers face while breastfeeding? Doctors share solutions

How to reduce PFAS exposure and its impact on breastfeeding

 1. Reduce your exposure to PFAS

• Reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters are effective at reducing PFAS levels in drinking water.
• Avoid products containing PFAS: Choose cookware, food packaging, and personal care products that are free of PFAS. Check the label and manufacturer information to make sure the product does not contain PFAS.
• Adjust your diet: Be aware that foods may be contaminated with PFAS. Prioritize organic produce and avoid processed foods that may be high in PFAS.

2. Strengthening breastfeeding support

• Lactation counseling: Seek the guidance of a lactation consultant who can provide individualized advice and support for any breastfeeding challenges, including those that may be related to PFAS exposure.
• Breastfeeding education: Educate new mothers about the importance of breastfeeding, the potential risks associated with PFAS, and strategies to optimize breast milk production and breastfeeding duration.

3. Health monitoring and medical intervention

• Regular health checks: Regular health checks can help monitor PFAS levels and overall health. Your health care provider can make specific recommendations for managing your exposure to PFAS.
• Dietary supplements: Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, may help reduce some of the side effects of exposure to PFAS. Consult your doctor before taking dietary supplements.

4. Advocacy and policy change

• Community awareness: Raising awareness of the risks of PFAS and advocating for safer alternatives can drive change at the community level. Support local and national efforts aimed at reducing PFAS contamination.
• Tighter Regulation: We advocate for stricter regulation of the production and use of PFAS. We support policies aimed at reducing environmental pollution and promoting cleaner production processes.

5. Research and Innovation

• Invest in research: Ongoing research is needed to fully understand the effects of PFAS on breastfeeding and develop effective interventions. Support scientific research that will lead to better solutions.
• Developing alternatives: Encouraging innovation in the development of PFAS-free products can significantly reduce exposure risks. Consumers can support companies that prioritize safer alternatives.

in conclusion 

The impact of PFAS on breastfeeding poses significant challenges for new mothers. Understanding the mechanisms by which these chemicals interfere with breastfeeding is critical to developing effective strategies to minimize their impact. Reducing exposure to PFAS through lifestyle changes, seeking expert help, pushing for stricter regulations, and supporting ongoing research can help protect the health of mothers and their babies. It is essential that communities, health care providers, and policymakers work together to address this pressing issue and ensure a healthier future for all.