Tiny Plastics, Big Concerns: Microplastics Found in Human and Cat Reproductive Systems

A new study found microplastics in human ovaries. Experts discuss the significance, and what, if anything, you can do to limit their exposure.

In a small study of eight cats at early stages of pregnancy, researchers detected 19 different kinds of microplastic particles in fetuses from two cats and in the placentas of three cats. Ilaria Ferraboschi of the University of Parma, Italy, and colleagues present these findings in the open-access journal PLOS One on April 2, 2025.

In a small study of eight cats at early stages of pregnancy, researchers detected 19 different kinds of microplastic particles in fetuses from two cats and in the placentas of three cats. Ilaria Ferraboschi of the University of Parma, Italy, and colleagues present these findings in PLOS One.

Black plastics used in common household goods can contain toxic flame retardant chemicals originating from e-waste.

Researchers found microplastics in every testicle they studied, underscoring concerns about the impacts of environmental hazards on reproductive health.

Microplastics, defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm in size, have become a pervasive environmental contaminant detected across a wide range of ecosystems. While the presence of microplastics in marine life and humans has been extensively documented, there remains a significant gap in understanding their full health impacts. Moreover, the effects of microplastics on animals, particularly those in close proximity to human activities, remain underexplored, representing a key area for future research. In this study, we found high levels of microplastic accumulation in animal tissues, particularly in the lungs, intestines, and reproductive organs. Our results also indicate that ingestion of microplastics occurs through multiple environmental sources, including contaminated food, water, and air, reflecting their widespread distribution. Evidence of microplastics crossing biological barriers and accumulating in critical organ systems suggests potential long-term health risks for animals that may also have implications for humans through environmental and food-chain exposure. Given the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the potential for these contaminants to enter the food chain, the presence of microplastics in animals raises serious concerns for broader ecological and human health. The findings underscore the urgent need for further research to clarify the long-term effects and to develop effective strategies for mitigating this emerging global threat.

Experts call for more research before parents panic—and offer ways to reduce exposure to microplastics in the meantime.

Previous research detected the tiny particles in our brains, lungs, liver, kidneys and blood — plus in bodily fluids like semen and breast milk.

Microplastics have been found for the first time in human ovary follicular fluid, raising a new round of questions about the ubiquitous and toxic substances’ potential impact on women’s fertility. The new peer-reviewed research published in  Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety  

Raman spectroscopy reveals potential placental transfer of microplastics in felines, mirroring findings in humans and animal models