Introduction

The life of plastic is very long, complex, and encompasses three main phases: production, use, and disposal. Its distribution spans the whole planet, resulting in transboundary pollution and implications not only in our environment but in our lives as well. Emerging research has revealed how deeply plastic exposure affects women’s health, especially in low-income settings where waste is often handled informally and without proper protection.

Microplastic Womb

Microplastics are tiny particles formed primarily from the breakdown of larger plastics that have quietly infiltrated nearly every corner of our environment, from oceans and rivers to soil, air, and even the food we eat, including sea salt, seafood, and drinking water (Ragusa, 2022).

Studies examined by researchers in recent years have resulted in many concerning outcomes when it comes to the reproductive health of women. In one of the most alarming recent studies, researchers discovered microplastics and plastic additives in both the placenta and amniotic (the innermost membrane that encloses the embryo) fluid of pregnant women.

Research suggests that these particles do more than just linger; they interfere. Microplastics have been linked to liver lipid accumulation, which can weaken the metabolism of both mother and fetus. These plastic particles are also known to cause oxidative stress, a condition that damages cells by overwhelming the body’s antioxidant defenses. This, in turn, can lead to apoptosis, or programmed cell death, disrupting normal fetal development. Inflammation of the uterus is also common due to microplastics, adding stress to already delicate systems.

Even more concerning are the structural effects. Microplastics have been shown to damage uterine arteries, restricting blood flow to the placenta and fetus. They increase the risk of miscarriage, particularly when exposure is high. Researchers have also found that they can disrupt placental function, interfering with nourishment and oxygen transfer to the fetus. Finally, exposure has been linked to ovarian fibrosis, which is a scarring of the ovaries that may compromise fertility (Inam, Ö, 2024).

Conclusion: Minimize plastic exposure

Studies have shown that the plastic living right now in our system is not permanent and it can be reduced by taking small steps by individuals, especially women, during their pregnancy. Simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference; choosing alternatives to plastic, like buying products in cardboard, wearing natural-fiber clothing, and drinking tap water instead of plastic-bottled water, are all easy and practical steps to limit plastic exposure (Ragusa, 2022).

Ultimately, making women aware of the health implications caused by microplastics is a human right. They need to know what is entering their bodies and be conscious of their daily consumption from different products, often which are advertised as being safe and completely harmless, prioritizing profit over women’s health and rights.