Microplastics Detected in Human Reproductive Fluids, Raising Fertility Alarms

Researchers at the 41st ESHRE meeting reported the presence of microplastics in 69% of women’s follicular fluid and 55% of men’s semen samples. The most prevalent polymer found was PTFE (Teflon), followed by polypropylene, PET, polyamide, polyethylene, polyurethane, and polystyrene. This inaugural study, to be published in Human Reproduction, collected samples from 29 women and 22 men using rigorous contamination controls and analyzed them via laser direct infrared microscopy. Though human impact remains uncertain, animal studies link microplastic exposure to inflammation, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and hormone disruption factors known to impair sperm and egg quality. Lead researcher Dr. Emilio Gomez‑Sanchez stressed caution, stating the findings warrant further investigation but do not warrant alarm. He advises reducing plastic use especially avoiding plastic containers for heating or storing food to limit exposure. The study team plans expanded research to identify connections between microplastics and reproductive health outcomes.
*This news has been published on Times of India on 02nd July 2025