Plastics in human reproductive tissues: A systematic review of detection, characterization, and effects on fertility.

OBJECTIVE

To synthesize studies that identify and characterize microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in human reproductive tissues, as well as their potential effect on ovarian reserve markers and sperm quality.

EVIDENCE REVIEW: A search of PubMed and Embase was performed to include any publications prior to September 4th, 2025, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

RESULTS

Forty-one studies were included. Seven studies analyzed female tissues (follicular fluid and granulosa cells), nine studies examined male reproductive tissues (testis, epididymis, and semen), one study included tissues from males and females, and 24 investigated placental tissues. MPs and NPs were found to accumulate in follicular fluid, testis, epididymis, semen, and placenta. Preparation and detection methodology varied between the included studies. The exposure of MPs and NPs to human reproductive tissues was associated with metabolic dysfunction, an activation of oxidative stress pathways, and a shift toward apoptosis. While multiple studies found associations between MPs or NPs exposure and poor sperm motility, findings on associations between plastic particle presence and ovarian reserve markers or reproductive outcomes were inconsistent.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this review show that MPs and NPs accumulate in human reproductive tissues and may induce cellular dysfunction. Additional investigations into the impact of MPs and NPs on ovarian reserve markers and reproductive outcomes are needed to better understand the potential impacts of plastic particle exposure on reproductive health.