Tiny toxins, big impact? What the latest research says about microplastics and your fertility and pregnancy health
Microplastics might’ve sounded like background noise a while ago, but lately, they’ve become harder to ignore. From our environment to our bodies, they’re turning up more often than we’d like.
The good news? There are small, doable ways to lower your exposure — and we’ve rounded them up for you.
Microplastics 101: What they are & how they show up in our bodies
Microplastics are tiny bits of plastic — smaller than 5mm, and sometimes even invisible to the eye. They’ve made their way into everyday items like clothing fibers, food packaging, cosmetics, bottled water, and even the air we breathe. Basically, if it’s wrapped in plastic, washed in plastic, or stored in plastic, there’s a good chance some of those particles are tagging along.
And they’re not just staying on the surface. Little wonder that microplastics have been detected throughout the human body in our:
- Blood
- Saliva
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Placenta
Researchers at Harvard are now trying to understand how they travel through organs and tissues, likely entering the body through the lungs and digestive system.
The tiniest of these, called nanoplastics (smaller than 1 micrometer), are raising the most concern — because they’re small enough to slip inside our cells.
Where the science stands: What we know so far
How does this relate to fertility and maternal health?
While research on microplastics is still emerging, it’s moving quickly — and what we know so far is eye-opening. One study found plastics in every single human placenta tested. Others have detected microplastics in human blood, lungs, ovaries, and even amniotic fluid.
These tiny particles may cause cellular damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal disruptions — all of which can impact reproductive health over time.
This doesn’t mean you need to panic. But it does mean scientists are beginning to connect the dots between exposure and long-term health outcomes, including fertility, pregnancy, and fetal development.
The more we learn, the more empowered we are to take protective steps and advocate for change.
Do microplastics affect fertility?
The answer is — maybe. But new research is raising serious questions about how microplastics may affect fertility, especially for people trying to conceive.
Recent studies have detected microplastics in the follicular fluid of women undergoing IVF, as well as in human ovarian tissue (Frontiers in Endocrinology, The Guardian). Scientists are beginning to understand how these particles may disrupt egg quality, ovulation, and hormone signaling, which could explain symptoms similar to PCOS and contribute to lower IVF success rates.
While the research is still developing, one thing is clear: the presence of microplastics in reproductive tissue is no longer a far-off concern — it’s already happening.
Some early studies also suggest a link between microplastics and declining sperm quality, pointing to broader fertility challenges across all genders. We’ve covered the chemicals to avoid to help boost male fertility here, if you’re interested.
Microplastics & pregnancy: What’s actually happening?
We know this can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re pregnant or trying to be. We’re here to share what the science is starting to show.
Recent studies have found microplastics in 100% of tested placentas and amniotic fluid, with higher levels in people who gave birth prematurely (SMFM, (Microplastics in maternal amniotic fluid and their associations with gestational age – PubMed.), PMC).
These tiny particles may interfere with the placenta’s role as a barrier, which could raise risks of preterm birth, inflammation, and altered fetal development (EP Wales).
This doesn’t mean you should panic — but it does mean researchers are paying attention. And knowing more helps us all make empowered, informed choices.
Who’s most affected, and why that matters
Microplastic exposure isn’t equal — and that’s a problem.
Communities of color, lower-income families, and those living near industrial areas often face higher exposure due to environmental racism and limited access to clean water or low-toxicity products.
For Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized people, these risks layer onto existing disparities in maternal care.
This isn’t just about plastics — it’s about justice. Everyone deserves a safe, healthy start, no matter where they live.
What you can do: Lowering your microplastic exposure
The good news? There are easy things we can do, starting today, to lower our exposure. Practical suggestions may include:
- Use glass or stainless steel containers
- Choose natural fabrics over synthetics like polyester
- Get a NSF-certified water filter
- Ventilate and vacuum to reduce indoor particles
- Avoid plastic-wrapped foods and storing food in plastic
- Use non-toxic cleaning products
- Avoid heating plastic
- Use bamboo or wood cutting boards
- Wash your hands
No one can avoid every toxin, and this isn’t about being perfect. But you deserve to understand what’s out there, and to feel supported in the choices you make — for your health, your body, and your future.
