Microplastics Found in Follicular and Seminal Fluids, Say Scientists

In a recent discovery, scientists have found microplastics in human reproductive fluids, according to a new study presented at the 41st Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. The findings have sparked concerns about their possible effects on fertility and reproductive health.

What Was Discovered

The study involved 29 women and 22 men, patients and donors at Next Fertility Clinic in Murcia, Spain. The women were undergoing egg retrieval for assisted reproduction, and the men were part of semen analysis.

Researchers collected follicular and seminal fluid samples, stored them in glass containers to prevent contamination, and used a specialized imaging technique combining microscopy and an infrared laser to analyze them.

They found microplastics in 69% of the follicular fluid and 55% of the semen samples they examined. Follicular fluid surrounds and nourishes the egg in the ovary, while seminal fluid carries and protects sperm.

A total of 9 different types of microplastics were detected, including polyamide (PA), polyurethane, polyethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, and tetrafluoroethylene.

What Are Microplastics

Microplastics are small fragments of plastic, typically measuring under 5 millimeters. Some, called nanoplastics, are so small they measure less than 1,000th of a millimeter and are invisible to the naked eye. They’re created when bigger plastic items, such as disposable bottles, clothes made of synthetic fibers, and cosmetic products, gradually degrade.

Experts warn that microplastics pose a growing threat to both environmental and public health.

Have Microplastics Been Found in Humans Before

Microplastics have previously been found in various human tissues and fluids—from the lungs and placenta to the brain, testicles, and even stool. So while scientists weren’t surprised to find microplastics in reproductive fluids, they were struck by how many of the samples actually contained them.

How Do Microplastics Affect Health

While the exact effects on fertility are not yet clear, microplastics have been shown in other studies to trigger inflammation, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and endocrine disruption in the tissues where they accumulate. These effects could potentially harm sperm or egg quality, but further research is needed to confirm this.

How Do Microplastics Enter the Body

According to the researchers, microplastics primarily enter the human body through:

• Inhalation of polluted air: Tiny plastic fibers from synthetic clothes and dust can float in the air and be breathed in, allowing microplastics to reach the lungs.

• Ingestion of contaminated food and water: Microplastics enter the body by swallowing contaminated food and water, such as fish, shellfish, and even bottled or tap water.

• Skin contact: Microplastics can sometimes enter through the skin, especially from personal care products with plastic beads or handling plastics at work.

Once inside, they can enter the bloodstream and reach various organs, including those involved in reproduction.

Should You Be Concerned

The researchers caution against panic. Dr. Manuel Gomez Sanchez, during a press briefing, as quoted by several media reports, said:

He added that fertility is influenced by several factors, including age, genetics, and overall health.

Still, other experts believe the findings should prompt more careful consideration of plastic use in daily life. Professor Dr. Carlos Calhaz Jorge, former chair of ESHRE, as quoted by The Times of India, said:

Can We Reduce Our Exposure to Microplastics

While we can’t eliminate exposure entirely, researchers suggest a few simple steps to reduce everyday intake:

• Try switching to glass or steel containers, especially when storing or reheating food.

• Limit the use of plastic-packaged food and bottled water

• Opt for natural fabrics over synthetics

• Choose personal care products without microbeads or plastic-based ingredientsde

The team plans to study more participants and track how plastic exposure affects reproductive cells.

What's Next

While this small study offers early evidence of microplastics in reproductive fluids, scientists stress that more extensive research is needed to understand their impact on fertility. For now, it adds to the growing conversation around environmental plastics and their possible effects on human health.

(Rh/Pooja Bansal/MSM/)