Microplastics and Female Reproductive Health: Current Evidence on Fertility, Pregnancy, and Fetal Development
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21286007Keywords:
Microplastics, Female fertility, Pregnancy, Fetal development, Reproductive healthAbstract
Introduction: The presence of microplastics in human tissues has become an increasing public health concern due to their potential effects on female reproductive health and fetal development. Recent evidence indicates that these particles can cross biological barriers, reach the placenta, amniotic fluid, and reproductive tissues, triggering inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and endocrine disruption that may impair fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Objective: To review the current scientific evidence regarding the effects of microplastics on female fertility, pregnancy, and fetal development. Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. A total of 37 studies were identified in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases, of which seven met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. Results: The selected studies detected microplastics in the placenta, amniotic fluid, meconium, and female reproductive tissues. Exposure was associated with ovarian dysfunction, hormonal imbalance, reduced oocyte quality, placental inflammation, intrauterine growth restriction, and impaired embryonic and fetal development. Oxidative stress, apoptosis, and disruption of the hypothalamic pituitary ovarian axis were identified as the main biological mechanisms involved. Conclusion: Current evidence suggests that microplastics may represent an emerging risk factor for female reproductive health and fetal development. However, prospective clinical studies and standardized diagnostic methodologies are still required to establish causal relationships and support preventive strategies and public health policies.
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