Microplastics research could yield clues to fertility, endometriosis: 'Essential to proving why environmental legislation and collaboration is necessary'

Preliminary research suggests exposure to microplastics could affect fertility by altering regular changes to cells in the uterine lining. Further studies could also contribute to the growing body of research into the factors that may contribute to endometriosis.

Julia Froese, a researcher and college senior at the Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has been exploring the relationship between microplastics, uterine lining, and fertility. She presented her research at the 10th Annual NC Breathe Conference this fall. Her work seeks to better understand how microplastics — tiny pieces of plastic, generally less than five millimeters in diameter — may impact fertility. 

“Whether it be the release of emerging contaminants today or lingering pollutants released years prior, there are always risks around us which can lead to negative health effects,” Froese told Climate, Gendered.

Froese’s research has focused on endometrial stromal cells — or eSCs — which line the uterus and help prepare the organ for pregnancy or else may be shed through menstruation. Her initial findings suggest that eSCs exposed to microplastics may see disrupted development.

People who have endometriosis "also face changes in the proliferation and differentiation of their eSCs," Froese explained, so "the identification of cellular signaling pathways linked to eSC health in the microplastics study can better inform our understanding of these changes."

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other areas of the body. It can cause severe pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and, in some cases, struggles with fertility, in addition to other symptoms with the potential to impact well-being. As many as 1 in 10 people who menstruate may experience the condition. Further research into endometriosis and the potential linkages between plastics pollution and menstrual and reproductive health could benefit hundreds of millions globally.

"There are still questions around what causes endometriosis and whether some patients are more at risk than others," Froese noted. "Researching the mechanisms through which microplastics act to influence fertility can help us determine if they could have a combinatory effect when paired with other risk factors."

Froese says her field of research has the potential not only to yield answers and solutions for those facing menstrual and reproductive concerns — it may also help to strengthen the case for effective policymaking and coordination across the studies of health and environment. 

“Understanding the role these toxicants may play in disease development and reproductive health is essential to proving why environmental legislation and collaboration is necessary,” she said.

While the science on the potential health impacts of microplastics and even smaller nanoplastics is still emerging, those concerned may look to mitigate personal exposure to plastics — for instance, by limiting use of single-use products when possible or using a certified water filter. Individuals can also champion equitable access to safe non-plastic alternatives, non-discriminatory policies, and caps on the polluting production of plastics globally. 

Because the material doesn't break down well — instead breaking apart into smaller and smaller pieces — plastic can linger in soil systems, waterways, and even air supplies for long periods and enter the human body as we eat, drink, and breathe. With such lasting staying power, microplastics have been found throughout the human body, in animals, and in virtually every habitat on Earth.