Microplastics and Reproductive Health: A Growing Concern

Scientists are investigating whether microplastic particles could be interfering with reproductive health.

Figure 1: Pink towel 5x magnified

Microplastics—tiny plastic particles found in our air, water, and food—are now being detected inside the human body. Recent research has found them in blood, lungs, and even reproductive tissues. As global infertility rates rise, scientists are investigating whether these particles could be interfering with reproductive health in ways we are only beginning to understand.

Microplastics and Male Fertility

Animal studies suggest that microplastics impair sperm quality by accumulating in the testes, triggering inflammation, and causing oxidative stress. This damage reduces sperm count and motility while disrupting hormone production—particularly testosterone, which is essential for sperm development. Some researchers believe microplastic exposure may contribute to the decline in human sperm counts observed over recent decades.

Microplastics and Female Fertility

Microplastics have been detected in ovarian tissue and follicular fluid, raising concerns about their potential impact on female fertility. Laboratory studies suggest that these particles can disrupt egg maturation, which may reduce the chances of conception. Additionally, microplastics carry endocrine-disrupting chemicals such as bisphenols and phthalates, which can interfere with hormone regulation. This disruption may contribute to irregular menstrual cycles, ovulatory dysfunction, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome.

Pregnancy Risks and Long-Term Effects

Even during pregnancy, microplastics pose potential risks. Scientists have detected them in human placentas, suggesting they can cross biological barriers and expose developing fetuses. In animal studies, microplastic exposure has been linked to impaired placental function, restricted fetal growth, and an increased risk of complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Inflammation caused by microplastics may also contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Beyond pregnancy, researchers are investigating whether microplastics could cause lasting genetic changes. Some studies suggest they may alter DNA methylation, a process that regulates gene expression. If confirmed, this could mean that microplastic exposure today might affect not only current fertility rates but also future generations.

A Need for Action

Microplastic pollution isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s personal. These particles are making their way into our most vital biological systems, potentially affecting fertility and pregnancy outcomes. At CLEANR, we believe in tackling this crisis at its source, starting with the largest contributor of microplastic pollution: our washing machines. By capturing microplastics before they enter our water systems, CLEANR helps reduce exposure to these harmful particles. Protecting reproductive health starts with reducing plastic pollution, and that’s exactly what CLEANR is designed to do.

CLEANR’s Premium Microplastic Filter for washing machines captures 90%+ of microplastics from the largest source of microplastic pollution, preventing them from entering our environment.

What we can do about it:

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About CLEANR

CLEANR builds best-in-class microplastic filters for washing machines that effortlessly remove the largest source of microplastics into the environment. Its technology, VORTX, represents a breakthrough in filtration, with a patent-pending design that is inspired by nature and proven to outperform conventional filtration technologies by over 300%. The company is building a platform filter technology that enables product manufacturers and business customers to materially reduce their microplastic emissions from impacted in-bound and out-bound fluid streams, including residential and commercial washing machine wastewater, in-home water systems, wastewater treatment, textile manufacturing effluents, industrial wastewater, and other sources. www.cleanr.life

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