Microplastics are everywhere—including in human reproductive fluids
““Microplastics have become a topic of growing concern over the last few years. These teeny tiny plastic particles come mainly from larger pieces of plastic that have degraded or are specifically manufactured for use as exfoliants in health and beauty products. Microplastics are smaller than 5 mm in size and non-degradable, so they move easily through waste systems, ending up in oceans, freshwater, and soil. From there, they can make their way into human bodies via drinking water, food, and the air. Previous studies have reported their presence in human brains, lungs, and testicles . Now, research shared at the 41st Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology reports evidence of microplastics in reproductive fluids. (…) Microplastics were found in 69% of follicular fluid samples and 55% of seminal fluid samples. In both kinds of reproductive fluids, PTFE was the most common polymer identified. PTFE, commonly known by the brand name Teflon, is used as a non-stick coating for cookware.” Science Adviser, 14 July 2025

Oxford Academic, Human Reproduction, 2 July 2025

Unveiling the hidden danger: detection and characterisation of microplastics in human follicular and seminal fluids

Various types of MPs were identified in both male and female reproductive systems, providing essential evidence to evaluate their potential risks to human reproductive health.