Scientists in Italy have discovered microplastics in the ovarian fluid of women undergoing fertility treatment, sparking serious concerns about reproductive health. The research, published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, marks the first time these plastic particles have been detected in this sensitive part of the female body.
The study examined 18 women in Salerno, Italy, all of whom were undergoing assisted reproductive procedures. Microplastics were found in the follicular fluid of 14 of them—around 78% of participants. This fluid surrounds the egg inside the ovary and plays a key role in its development and overall fertility potential.
What Are Microplastics and Why Are They Dangerous?
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters. They come from broken-down packaging, synthetic clothing, cosmetics, and industrial waste. These particles are now present everywhere—from drinking water to fruits and vegetables.
Worryingly, microplastics are not just physical particles. They can carry up to 16,000 different chemicals, many of which are known to be harmful to human health. These include:
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PFAS (forever chemicals) – linked to cancer and immune system damage
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Bisphenols – known to disrupt hormones
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Phthalates – associated with reduced fertility and developmental disorders
“These pollutants are acting like Trojan horses,” said study author Luigi Montano from the University of Rome. “They carry toxic substances directly into the body, and now we see they can reach the female reproductive system.”
The Role of Follicular Fluid in Reproduction
Follicular fluid provides nutrition and chemical signals to help eggs mature inside the ovary. It is crucial for proper hormone signaling and successful fertilization. The presence of microplastics in this fluid suggests that eggs may be exposed to harmful chemicals at a very early stage.
Montano described the findings as “very alarming” and part of a broader pattern. His earlier work already confirmed microplastics in semen and urine samples, raising concerns for both male and female fertility.
Impact on Reproductive Health
Animal studies support the concern. Female animals exposed to microplastics showed:
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Decreased egg maturity
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Hormonal imbalances
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Lower fertilization success
Similar effects may be occurring in humans, especially in polluted areas. Montano’s team believes that long-term exposure could be linked to the global rise in fertility problems. These findings come at a time when sperm counts are falling and infertility rates are climbing.
Dr. Xiaozhong Yu, a reproductive health expert at the University of New Mexico, said the findings are “important and concerning.” He added, “The next step is to understand how much exposure is harmful and how we can prevent it.”
How to Reduce Microplastic Exposure
Completely avoiding microplastics is nearly impossible, but small lifestyle changes may help lower risk:
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Avoid heating food in plastic containers, especially in the microwave
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Don’t use disposable plastic cups for hot drinks
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Choose glass, wood, or stainless steel for storage and cooking
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Limit packaged and processed foods
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Buy organic when possible, since some pesticides may act like microplastics
Even small actions—like switching to reusable containers and avoiding plastic kitchen tools—can reduce the number of harmful chemicals entering the body. These changes are especially important for people planning to have children.
The detection of microplastics in the human reproductive system is just the latest in a growing list of environmental health warnings. From the oceans to mountain peaks, these particles are found almost everywhere. Now, they are being discovered in the most private parts of the human body.
Scientists are calling for urgent action—not just more research, but also stronger regulations on plastic production and disposal.