Microplastics in ovaries? How to ensure reproductive health
The growing burden of plastic pollution is not just an environmental concern; it has serious consequences for human fertility as well. Dr Divyaasha Walia, IVF specialist and senior consultant at Indira IVF, New Delhi, explains how microplastics impact reproductive wellbeing.
Plastic particles can reach the ovaries: For the first time, scientists have detected tiny plastic particles in human ovarian follicular fluid, raising deep concerns about their impact on female reproductive health. Microplastics are increasingly infiltrating vital organs, such as the brain, lungs, heart, and now the reproductive system, affecting their normal function. In a study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety in 2025, researchers found microplastics in 14 out of 18 follicular fluid samples extracted from women undergoing fertility treatment in Italy. This discovery points towards a new threat to female fertility, with potential risks of ovarian ageing, early menopause and impaired egg production. Parallel findings in animal models have shown that microplastic exposure significantly decreases the survival rate of oocytes, the cells responsible for producing eggs.
Men are equally vulnerable: Research shows that the presence of polyethylene and PVC particles in human and canine testicles is associated with a reduction in testicular weight and sperm count. Smaller testicles generally produce less sperm, thereby contributing to fertility challenges. Scientists have also observed that microplastic exposure can cause sperm abnormalities, DNA damage and mitochondrial dysfunction within just 30 minutes of contact. Worryingly, global sperm levels are predicted to trend toward zero by 2045 if such environmental threats are not addressed.
PVC is particularly harmful: These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors, capable of interfering with normal hormone functions, which are critical for reproductive health. In men, they have been linked to erectile dysfunction, reduced sperm quality and conditions such as undescended testes and premature puberty. In women, high levels of phthalates have been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, with studies suggesting that women with the highest urinary phthalate levels are 60 per cent likelier to face miscarriage within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Can affect unborn children: Microplastics have even been found to cross critical protective barriers, such as the placenta, potentially exposing unborn children to plastic particles during the earliest stages of development. One recent study found microplastics in all human placentas tested, underlining the widespread extent of contamination.
Adopt healthier plastic habits: While it may not be possible to completely eliminate microplastic exposure from modern life, adopting consistent and mindful habits can significantly lower the risk. Opting for glass, stainless steel or ceramic containers instead of plastic for food storage, reducing the intake of processed and packaged foods, and choosing personal care products labelled free of microbeads are simple but effective steps. Paying attention to product ingredients, supporting brands that prioritise sustainable packaging and reducing the use of single-use plastics at home and work can further contribute to minimizing exposure.
On a broader level, advocating for stronger environmental policies and supporting initiatives aimed at reducing plastic production and waste are critical actions. As scientific evidence continues to highlight the far-reaching impact of microplastics, taking conscious steps to protect reproductive health is no longer optional but an urgent responsibility towards ourselves and future generations.
Subscribe to India Today Magazine
The growing burden of plastic pollution is not just an environmental concern; it has serious consequences for human fertility as well. Dr Divyaasha Walia, IVF specialist and senior consultant at Indira IVF, New Delhi, explains how microplastics impact reproductive wellbeing.
Plastic particles can reach the ovaries: For the first time, scientists have detected tiny plastic particles in human ovarian follicular fluid, raising deep concerns about their impact on female reproductive health. Microplastics are increasingly infiltrating vital organs, such as the brain, lungs, heart, and now the reproductive system, affecting their normal function. In a study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety in 2025, researchers found microplastics in 14 out of 18 follicular fluid samples extracted from women undergoing fertility treatment in Italy. This discovery points towards a new threat to female fertility, with potential risks of ovarian ageing, early menopause and impaired egg production. Parallel findings in animal models have shown that microplastic exposure significantly decreases the survival rate of oocytes, the cells responsible for producing eggs.
Men are equally vulnerable: Research shows that the presence of polyethylene and PVC particles in human and canine testicles is associated with a reduction in testicular weight and sperm count. Smaller testicles generally produce less sperm, thereby contributing to fertility challenges. Scientists have also observed that microplastic exposure can cause sperm abnormalities, DNA damage and mitochondrial dysfunction within just 30 minutes of contact. Worryingly, global sperm levels are predicted to trend toward zero by 2045 if such environmental threats are not addressed.
PVC is particularly harmful: These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors, capable of interfering with normal hormone functions, which are critical for reproductive health. In men, they have been linked to erectile dysfunction, reduced sperm quality and conditions such as undescended testes and premature puberty. In women, high levels of phthalates have been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, with studies suggesting that women with the highest urinary phthalate levels are 60 per cent likelier to face miscarriage within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Can affect unborn children: Microplastics have even been found to cross critical protective barriers, such as the placenta, potentially exposing unborn children to plastic particles during the earliest stages of development. One recent study found microplastics in all human placentas tested, underlining the widespread extent of contamination.
Adopt healthier plastic habits: While it may not be possible to completely eliminate microplastic exposure from modern life, adopting consistent and mindful habits can significantly lower the risk. Opting for glass, stainless steel or ceramic containers instead of plastic for food storage, reducing the intake of processed and packaged foods, and choosing personal care products labelled free of microbeads are simple but effective steps. Paying attention to product ingredients, supporting brands that prioritise sustainable packaging and reducing the use of single-use plastics at home and work can further contribute to minimizing exposure.
On a broader level, advocating for stronger environmental policies and supporting initiatives aimed at reducing plastic production and waste are critical actions. As scientific evidence continues to highlight the far-reaching impact of microplastics, taking conscious steps to protect reproductive health is no longer optional but an urgent responsibility towards ourselves and future generations.
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Microplastics in ovaries? How to ensure reproductive health
The growing burden of plastic pollution is not just an environmental concern; it has serious consequences for human fertility as well. Dr Divyaasha Walia, IVF specialist and senior consultant at Indira IVF, New Delhi, explains how microplastics impact reproductive wellbeing. Plastic particles can reach the ovaries: For the first time, scientists have detected tiny plastic particles in human ovarian follicular fluid, raising deep concerns about their impact on female reproductive health. Microplastics are increasingly infiltrating vital organs, such as the brain, lungs, heart, and now the reproductive system, affecting their normal function. In a study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety in 2025, researchers found microplastics in 14 out of 18 follicular fluid samples extracted from women undergoing fertility treatment in Italy. This discovery points towards a new threat to female fertility, with potential risks of ovarian ageing, early menopause and impaired egg production. Parallel findings in animal models have shown that microplastic exposure significantly decreases the survival rate of oocytes, the cells responsible for producing eggs. Men are equally vulnerable: Research shows that the presence of polyethylene and PVC particles in human and canine testicles is associated with a reduction in testicular weight and sperm count. Smaller testicles generally produce less sperm, thereby contributing to fertility challenges. Scientists have also observed that microplastic exposure can cause sperm abnormalities, DNA damage and mitochondrial dysfunction within just 30 minutes of contact. Worryingly, global sperm levels are predicted to trend toward zero by 2045 if such environmental threats are not addressed. PVC is particularly harmful: These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors, capable of interfering with normal hormone functions, which are critical for reproductive health. In men, they have been linked to erectile dysfunction, reduced sperm quality and conditions such as undescended testes and premature puberty. In women, high levels of phthalates have been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, with studies suggesting that women with the highest urinary phthalate levels are 60 per cent likelier to face miscarriage within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. Can affect unborn children: Microplastics have even been found to cross critical protective barriers, such as the placenta, potentially exposing unborn children to plastic particles during the earliest stages of development. One recent study found microplastics in all human placentas tested, underlining the widespread extent of contamination. Adopt healthier plastic habits: While it may not be possible to completely eliminate microplastic exposure from modern life, adopting consistent and mindful habits can significantly lower the risk. Opting for glass, stainless steel or ceramic containers instead of plastic for food storage, reducing the intake of processed and packaged foods, and choosing personal care products labelled free of microbeads are simple but effective steps. Paying attention to product ingredients, supporting brands that prioritise sustainable packaging and reducing the use of single-use plastics at home and work can further contribute to minimizing exposure. On a broader level, advocating for stronger environmental policies and supporting initiatives aimed at reducing plastic production and waste are critical actions. As scientific evidence continues to highlight the far-reaching impact of microplastics, taking conscious steps to protect reproductive health is no longer optional but an urgent responsibility towards ourselves and future generations. Subscribe to India Today Magazine The growing burden of plastic pollution is not just an environmental concern; it has serious consequences for human fertility as well. Dr Divyaasha Walia, IVF specialist and senior consultant at Indira IVF, New Delhi, explains how microplastics impact reproductive wellbeing. Plastic particles can reach the ovaries: For the first time, scientists have detected tiny plastic particles in human ovarian follicular fluid, raising deep concerns about their impact on female reproductive health. Microplastics are increasingly infiltrating vital organs, such as the brain, lungs, heart, and now the reproductive system, affecting their normal function. In a study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety in 2025, researchers found microplastics in 14 out of 18 follicular fluid samples extracted from women undergoing fertility treatment in Italy. This discovery points towards a new threat to female fertility, with potential risks of ovarian ageing, early menopause and impaired egg production. Parallel findings in animal models have shown that microplastic exposure significantly decreases the survival rate of oocytes, the cells responsible for producing eggs. Men are equally vulnerable: Research shows that the presence of polyethylene and PVC particles in human and canine testicles is associated with a reduction in testicular weight and sperm count. Smaller testicles generally produce less sperm, thereby contributing to fertility challenges. Scientists have also observed that microplastic exposure can cause sperm abnormalities, DNA damage and mitochondrial dysfunction within just 30 minutes of contact. Worryingly, global sperm levels are predicted to trend toward zero by 2045 if such environmental threats are not addressed. PVC is particularly harmful: These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors, capable of interfering with normal hormone functions, which are critical for reproductive health. In men, they have been linked to erectile dysfunction, reduced sperm quality and conditions such as undescended testes and premature puberty. In women, high levels of phthalates have been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, with studies suggesting that women with the highest urinary phthalate levels are 60 per cent likelier to face miscarriage within the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. Can affect unborn children: Microplastics have even been found to cross critical protective barriers, such as the placenta, potentially exposing unborn children to plastic particles during the earliest stages of development. One recent study found microplastics in all human placentas tested, underlining the widespread extent of contamination. Adopt healthier plastic habits: While it may not be possible to completely eliminate microplastic exposure from modern life, adopting consistent and mindful habits can significantly lower the risk. Opting for glass, stainless steel or ceramic containers instead of plastic for food storage, reducing the intake of processed and packaged foods, and choosing personal care products labelled free of microbeads are simple but effective steps. Paying attention to product ingredients, supporting brands that prioritise sustainable packaging and reducing the use of single-use plastics at home and work can further contribute to minimizing exposure. On a broader level, advocating for stronger environmental policies and supporting initiatives aimed at reducing plastic production and waste are critical actions. As scientific evidence continues to highlight the far-reaching impact of microplastics, taking conscious steps to protect reproductive health is no longer optional but an urgent responsibility towards ourselves and future generations. Subscribe to India Today Magazine Join our WhatsApp Channel
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