Demographic, behavioral, dietary, and socioeconomic characteristics related to persistent organic pollutants and mercury levels in pregnant women in Japan

•PCDDs/PCDFs and DL-PCBs, and PFOS decreased with maternal smoking history.•NDL-PCBs and, PCDDs/PCDFs and DL-PCBs increased with maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy.•Total hair Hg increased with household income.•Beef and fish/seafood intake may be important exposure sources of NDL-PCBs.•Chemical exposure and elimination rate may be related to lifestyle factors.