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Microplastic exposure and female reproductive health: A scientific review
Summary
This scientific review examined the distribution of microplastics in the female reproductive system — including the placenta, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus — and reviewed evidence for disruption of fertility, hormonal function, and pregnancy outcomes. MPs were found to penetrate reproductive tissues and may impair oocyte quality, implantation, and fetal development.
As a global pollutant, microplastics (MPs) are widely distributed in the natural environment and human tissues, and their potential threat to female reproductive health has gradually become an important issue in the field of public health. The distribution, health effects and toxic mechanisms of MPs in female reproductive system were reviewed in this paper. MPs can penetrate the placental barrier, interfere with fetal development, and increase the risk of pregnancy complications. In ovaries, MPs induce granulosa cell apoptosis and disrupt follicular development, leading to hormonal imbalance and decreased fertility. In utero, the accumulation of MPs can cause endometrial inflammation and reduced receptivity, significantly inhibiting embryo implantation. This study provides a scientific basis for revealing the female reproductive toxicity of MPs, and has important reference value for formulating environmental health standards and improving female reproductive health protection strategies.