New research reveals disturbing details related to increased risks of infertility involving microplastics, and humans are likely to be blamed.
The research presented at the 41st Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) presents evidence of microplastic found in reproductive fluids at both men and women, affecting the reproductive health.
The study examined follicular fluid from 29 women and seminal fluid from 22 men. These are both essential for natural conception and assisted reproductive procedures.
The analyzed female fluids contained 69% microplastics, with PTFE found in 31% of the samples, while the semen analyzed contained 55%.
“These are fluids that should be pristine, vital to the beginning of life,” Dr. Emilio Gomez-Sanchez who lead the team of scientists remarked. “So to find microplastics here is not just surprising—it’s deeply concerning.”
Except for PTFE — better known as Teflon — scientists also discovered the presence of polypropylene, PET (used in drink bottles), polystyrene, polyurethane, polyamide, and polyethylene.
Microplastics refer to plastic pieces smaller than 5mm that are a result of broken-down waste or products like cosmetics and clothing fibers. Once released in the environment, they are practically impossible to remove. Microplastics find their way inside the human body through the food we consume, the air we breathe, and the water we drink.
Sadly, they also reach human reproductive cells.
Current research conducted on animals show that once inside the body, microplastics can trigger inflammation, cause DNA damage, hormonal disruption, and premature aging of the cells.
“In animal studies, we’ve seen microplastics accumulate in reproductive tissues and impair egg and sperm quality,” Dr. Gomez-Sanchez noted. “It’s possible they could do the same in humans—but we simply don’t know yet.”
Previous studies have detected microplastics in human breast milk, the bloodstream, and even brain tissue.
Dr. Gomez-Sanchez concluded, “There’s no need for alarm at this point. Microplastics are just one of many elements that may play a role in fertility. However, it is sensible to consider ways of reducing our exposure to them. Simple steps, such as using glass containers to store and heat food, or limiting the amount of water we consume from plastic bottles, can help minimize our intake.”
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