The Impact of Endocrine Disruptor Exposure During Pregnancy on Bacterial Complications and Viral Infections: A Narrative Review

Journal article : Review

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a diverse group of environmental pollutants capable of interfering with hormonal and immune system regulation. In recent years, increasing concern has been raised about the effects of chemicals, including bisphenols, phthalates, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), insecticides, and parabens, on maternal and fetal health, primarily due to their widespread exposure in human populations. Pregnancy represents a critical window characterized by tightly regulated hormonal and immunological adaptations. Emerging evidence suggests that EDC exposure during this period may alter maternal microbiota, disrupt immune responses, and interfere with endocrine signaling. These changes may increase susceptibility to bacterial and viral infections, including bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infections, and intrauterine infections, all of which are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. This review summarizes the current evidence on the sources and mechanisms of exposure to endocrine disruptors during pregnancy and examines the potential biological pathways linking endocrine disruption to the development of infections. Particular emphasis is placed on the interactions between immune regulation, hormonal signaling, and changes in the microbiome, which may contribute to increased susceptibility to infections. A deeper understanding of these complex mechanisms is critical to improve risk assessment, develop effective public health strategies, and ultimately protect maternal and fetal health in an environment of increasing chemical exposure. A literature search was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, including studies published up to January 2026.

Authors: Stavros, S; Gerede, A; Zagorianakou, N; Moustakli, E; Potiris, A

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: MDPI
• Journal: Microorganisms
• Volume: 14
• Issue: 5
• Pages: 1012
• Article number: 1012
• Publication date: 2026-04-30
• Acceptance date: 2026-04-28
• DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms14051012
• EISSN: 2076-2607
• ISSN: 2076-2607
• Language: English
• Keywords: maternal microbiota; microbial diversity; oxidative stress; immune modulation; inflammatory pathways; host–microbe interactions; immunotoxicity; placental transfer; dysbiosis
• Subtype: Review