First evidence of microplastic accumulation in placentas and umbilical cords from pregnancies in Brazil

Microplastics (MPs) production and degradation are becoming a global concern. They accumulate across diverse environments, animals, and human tissues, closely linking to emerging environmental health impacts. In the Brazilian population, no evidence yet of accumulation in pregnant women's placenta or umbilical cord. In this pilot cross-sectional, observational study, we analyzed the presence, size, and composition of MPs isolated from placentas (n=10) and umbilical cords (n=10) from Maceio pregnant women. Under a plastic-controlled protocol, samples were digested with 10% KOH solution, glass-filtered, and retained particles were then analyzed by Raman spectroscopy. A total of 229 MPs were identified across all samples, including 110 in placental tissues and 119 in umbilical cord tissues. The predominant polymers were polyethylene (PE), polyamide (PA), polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA), polyurethane (PU), and polypropylene (PP). Our results demonstrated for the first time the accumulation of MPs in the placentas and umbilical cords of Brazilian pregnant women. This accumulation suggests that pregnant women in Maceio, Brazil, are likely experiencing microplastic (MP) exposure similar to global trends, emphasizing the importance of studying the mechanisms that facilitate the transport of MPs and related chemicals across the placental barrier.