Microplastics have found their way into human placentas, and experts are worried about their harmful effect on mothers and developing foetuses
Women who are exposed to high levels of air pollution—often containing microplastics have a 10–15% increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preeclampsia and preterm birth. (Environment International Study)
It’s a sad and chilling truth, but plastic seems to have made its way into the placentas of preterm babies, sparking fresh concerns. A groundbreaking study from Houston has recently found possible links between microplastic pollution and premature births. Researchers claim that high levels of microplastics and nano-plastics seem to have been found in the placentas of preterm babies compared to otherwise, full-term pregnancies. Micro-plastics (tiny broken-down fragments of plastic) have managed to seep through food, water, and even the air we breathe.
Dr Enrico R.Barrozo, (Ph.D) Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital says, “While this does not establish any causation, it raises important questions about how microplastics interact with pregnancy-related biological processes.”
Enrico is a key proponent in the study conducted on microplastics and premature births. There is a significant association between microplastic accumulation in placentas and preterm births. Enrico shares how preterm births could face significant vulnerability and find themselves associated with increased risks. These range from respiratory issues, metabolism concerns or neurodevelopmental challenges. Enrico reveals that their study hasn’t been able to pinpoint any definite evidence of a direct causal link between microplastics and preterm births. However, their findings do suggest that greater exposure to microplastics is one of the contributing factors.
In-Womb Happenings
“There has been research to put forth the findings of microplastic in the placenta, amniotic fluids and even in the first stools of newborns. This shows that babies may be exposed to these particles even while in the womb,” says Dr Nidhi Jha, Cosmetic Gynaecologist and Infertility Specialist, Senior Consultant at Rosewalk Hospital. Dr Nidhi opines that while conclusive proof is yet in the process, evidence suggests that microplastics are no longer just in the environment. She says, “They could be interfering very much with pregnancy in ways we are only now beginning to understand.”
According to a study published in Environment International (2022), women were exposed to high levels of air pollution —often containing microplastics. They have a 10–15% increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preeclampsia and preterm birth. Dr Nidhi says, “Microplastics often carry harmful chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates known endocrine disruptors that interfere harshly with reproductive health.”
Simple Effective Remedies
Start by opting for stainless steel or glass bottles instead of the usual plastic ones. This also applies to cosmetic and other skincare products that may contain these microplastics in whatsoever quantity. Dr Mithali Rathod, MS-OB Gynaecologist says that exposure to microplastics during pregnancy is linked to potential health risks for children like impaired growth, developmental disorders or even immune system deficiencies. Dr Mithali opines this could contribute to other neurological issues making the very onset of early-life exposure a daunting concern.
Dr Enrico believes that while there may be no specific recommendations to tackle a problem this large, there certainly are simple measures that could prove effective. He says, “Start by reducing single-use plastics or avoid heating food in plastic containers. Switch to alternatives like glass or stainless steel.” Broader policies aimed at limiting plastic production and pollution could immensely help in tackling the root cause of the problem.
Change For Starters
A study conducted in Houston highlights the need to investigate how microplastics reach and accumulate in the placenta, it is imperative to understand the underlying issues it seeks to address. Dr Nidhi says, “As we await further research, one thing is clear: plastic pollution is not just harming our planet — it is endangering our unborn children.” Studies may come each
time reminding us of the loopholes we need to address. Maybe it's time for people to digest the fact that Plastic Not
Only Hurts Earth, It Hurts Humans Too!
No Child's Play
Infants exposed to Microplastics could face the following:
• Growth and Developmental Issues: Studies indicate that microplastic exposure may impair foetal growth, low birth weight and developmental delays.
• Hormonal Imbalances: This leads to metabolic disorders, early puberty, and reproductive issues in adulthood.
• Neurodevelopmental Concerns: Affect brain development, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorders.
• Respiratory and Immune Disorders: Inhaled or ingested microplastics can trigger inflammatory responses, weakening an infant’s immune system and making them more susceptible to respiratory illnesses.
Remedial Measures
• Drink Filtered Water: Use high-quality filtration systems to reduce plastic particles in drinking water.
• Eat Organic and Whole Foods: Processed foods often contain higher levels of plastic contamination. Fresh, unprocessed foods are a safer choice.
• Avoid Plastic in Cooking and Storage: Refrain from microwaving food in plastic containers or using plastic utensils, as heat releases harmful chemicals.
• Use Air Purifiers: Since microplastics are present in dust and air pollution, air purifiers can help reduce indoor exposure.
• Be Mindful of Personal Care Products: Some cosmetics, exfoliants, and toothpaste contain microplastics—check ingredient labels for terms like “polyethylene” or “polypropylene.”
There has been research to put forth the findings of microplastic in the placenta, amniotic fluids and even in the first stools of newborns. This shows that babies may be exposed to these particles even while in the womb,”
— Dr. Nidhi Jha, Cosmetic Gynaecologist & Infertility Specialist, Sr. Consultant Rosewalk Hospital
Exposure to microplastics during pregnancy is linked to potential health risks for such children like impaired growth, developmental disorders or even immune system deficiencies.”
— Dr. Mithali Rathod, MS-OB Gynaecologist
While this does not establish any causation, it definitely raises important questions about how microplastics interact with pregnancy-related biological processes.”
— Dr. Enrico R. Barrozo, (Ph.D) Assistant Professor (Obstetrics and Gynaecology),
Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital, US
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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