Recent research published in Environmental Pollution suggests an association between elevated levels of glyphosate and premature birth in pregnant women. This herbicide, commonly used in agriculture and gardens, could have adverse effects during pregnancy.

The study by NYU Langone Health researchers analyzed data from 1,450 women between 2016 and 2019. Participants provided urine samples, allowing researchers to measure exposure to glyphosate and its breakdown product, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA).

Among the key results were

Risk of premature birth. A 35% increase in the probability of preterm birth associated with high concentrations of glyphosate was identified.

Spontaneous premature birth. This probability doubled in cases of spontaneous preterm birth.

Babies born prematurely are at greater risk for breathing difficulties, infections, and long-term developmental problems.

Tips to minimize exposure

Teresa Herrera, lead author of the study and a doctoral candidate in the Department of Public Health at New York University Grossman School of Medicine, consulted by Newsweek, suggests practical measures, such as eating organic foods and washing fruits and vegetables, to reduce exposure to glyphosate during pregnancy.

Herrera added that anyone concerned about chemical exposure during pregnancy should consult their doctor.

Public health implications

Premature birth represents a significant public health challenge, related to complications in newborns.

Although the study does not prove causality, there is evidence suggesting that glyphosate may influence pregnancy and birth outcomes, which requires further research.

Glyphosate exposure measurement

The most effective and common way to measure glyphosate exposure in the human body is by analyzing its levels in urine, using sensitive analytical techniques such as liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

The most used biomarkers to evaluate exposure to glyphosate are:

These compounds are mainly eliminated through the kidneys, so urine is the most used biological matrix for their detection.

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