As a fertility acupuncturist I have grown increasingly concerned about the impact of plastics and environmental toxins on our fertility potential. Infertility now affects one in every six couples, and with the global fertility rate declining by nearly 1% each year since 1960, understanding all potential risk factors is crucial. While age, diet, and lifestyle are commonly considered, recent studies suggest that exposure to plastics, especially micro and nano plastics, may also be playing a significant role in fertility issues. These tiny particles, which can carry hormone-disrupting chemicals like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPAs), are quietly impacting reproductive health in ways you might not expect.

What Are Microplastics Doing to Male Fertility?

When it comes to male fertility, reduced sperm counts, and viability are common concerns. But can exposure to plastic worsen these issues? Emerging research suggests it can.

We are starting to discover that certain plastics can interfere with or mimic the body’s sex hormones such as testosterone and that this can make the body think it has enough of that particular hormone, so production goes down and in the case of reduced testosterone production, this in turn negatively affects sperm production.

Additionally, micro and nano plastics have been found to significantly decrease sperm survival and damage DNA. In fact, studies show that just 30 minutes of exposure can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and DNA fragmentation, making it harder for sperm to survive and function properly [^1^].

How Could Plastics Be Affecting Female Fertility?

The potential risks of plastic exposure aren't limited to men. Women might also experience fertility issues due to these tiny particles. Microplastics can cross protective barriers, such as the placenta during pregnancy. Shockingly, microplastics have been detected on both the maternal and fetal sides of the placenta, raising concerns about their impact on fertility and pregnancy—even after an egg is fertilised. One study found microplastics in every single human placenta tested [^2^].

There is also now a compelling body of research that links some plastics with an increased risk of miscarriage. Phthalates, found in many everyday products like cosmetics, are particularly problematic. Known for disrupting hormones, phthalates have been linked to various fertility issues, including miscarriage. According to a study from the Harvard School of Public Health, women with high levels of phthalates in their urine were 60% more likely to miscarry in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy [^3^]. Bisphenol-A (BPA), another chemical commonly found in plastics, poses similar risks. Research has shown that women with elevated BPA levels are 83% more likely to miscarry in the first trimester compared to those with lower levels. [^4^].

Simple Steps to Reduce Your Exposure to Plastics

Given these findings, it's clear that reducing exposure to harmful plastics could be crucial for protecting fertility. Here are some practical steps that I recommend to my patients to help you reduce your exposure:

• Say No to Phthalates:

  • Phthalates are common in cosmetics and hair care products. To minimize exposure, check ingredient lists carefully and opt for phthalate-free products. Switching to natural, organic beauty products like wanderlightly's Pamper Clay Face Mask, Bug Balm, or Naked Balm are an effective way to avoid these chemicals.

• Ditch BPA:

  • BPA is found in many plastic bottles and food containers. Opt for glass or stainless-steel alternatives. Be mindful that "BPA-free" doesn’t always mean safe—some substitutes can be just as harmful. Prioritise materials like glass, ceramic, or stainless steel for food storage and drinks.

• Rethink Fast Fashion:

  • Fast fashion often uses synthetic textiles like nylon and polyester, which contribute to plastic pollution. Instead, choose clothing made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, or wool [^5^]. Reducing your consumption of fast fashion also lowers overall exposure to microplastics in your environment.

• Keep Your Home Clean:

  • Microplastics are a major component of household dust. Regular vacuuming and using natural cleaning products can help reduce the amount of plastic you’re exposed to indoors [^6^]. Consider a HEPA filter vacuum to trap smaller particles more effectively.

• Be Careful with Food Packaging:

  • Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers, even if they’re labeled microwave-safe, as they can leach harmful chemicals into your meals [^7^]. Choose alternatives like glass or silicone for microwaving.

Consider Acupuncture for a Natural Boost

As an acupuncturist with over 15 years of experience supporting my patients with fertility acupuncture, I believe that many fertility issues can be related to diet, lifestyle and environmental toxin exposure. As such I work with patients to gently detox their systems using diet and nutritional supplementation as well as acupuncture to support the detox process.

I have seen that in addition to reducing plastic exposure, exploring natural approaches like acupuncture could further support your fertility. Acupuncture has been shown to improve blood flow to reproductive organs, balance hormone levels, and reduce stress—all of which are important for maintaining fertility and counteracting the effects of environmental toxins [^8^]. 

For more personalised guidance on how fertility acupuncture can support your journey visit Fertile Body for the latest information.

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact

Can plastic affect your fertility? Mounting evidence suggests it can. However, by making small, mindful changes in your daily routine, you can reduce your exposure to harmful plastics and protect your reproductive health. These efforts, combined with natural therapies like acupuncture, may help enhance fertility and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

For those looking to make these small changes, choosing products that are safe and eco-friendly is a great first step. Browse through Wanderlightly’s range of sustainable, plastic-free alternatives that can help reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals while also supporting a more eco-conscious lifestyle.

And if you want to read in more detail about how environmental toxin’s are affecting our fertility a great book is Count Down: How our Modern World is threatening Sperm Counts, Altering Male and Female Reproductive Development, and Imperilling the Future of the Human Race by Shanna H Swan

About

Dr Sally Gole

Acupuncturist & Chinese Medicine Herbalist

Sally Gole is an accredited acupuncturist renowned for her work in the field of women’s integrative health. With over 15 years of experience Sally is considered one of Sydney’s leading fertility and women’s health acupuncturists. 

Sally gained an Advanced Diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine) from the Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and went on to complete a three month internship at the distinguished Nanjing University Hospital in China.

Sally is passionate about women’s health and strongly believes that acupuncture and natural therapies can play an important role in treating many conditions that contribute to infertility, miscarriage, immune compromise, anxiety and chronic illness.  She also has extensive knowledge of working with patients who suffer from endometriosis, PCOS, natural killer cells and hormonal imbalances such as perimenopause, PMS and irregular cycles.

Sally has extensive knowledge of IVF processes and how she can assist her patients to potentially maximise their fertility outcomes.  As men are just as integral to the fertility journey, Sally is also keen to work with men to support their fertility parameters and has significant experience in treating male infertility.

Sally uses an integrated and wholistic approach to treating her patients and each treatment is individualised to her patient’s needs. Her treatment protocols include Acupuncture, Traditional Chinese herbal remedies, dietary guidance, naturopathic supplementation, relaxation techniques and other natural tools. Sally is a registered member of the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia, Australia’s main regulatory body for the safe practice of traditional acupuncture and is registered with all the major health funds.

References:

[^1^]: The Science of the Total Environment. Adverse effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on the reproductive system: A comprehensive review of fertility and potential harmful interactions.

[^2^]: National Library of Medicine. Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta.

[^3^]: Environment Health Perspectives. Urinary Phthalate Metabolite Concentrations and Reproductive Outcomes among Women Undergoing in Vitro Fertilization: Results from the EARTH Study.

[^4^]: National Library of Medicine. Conjugated Bisphenol A (BPA) in maternal serum in relation to miscarriage risk.

[^5^]: Fashion Revolution. Can fast fashion break its plastics habit?

[^6^]: Environmental Pollution. International quantification of microplastics in indoor dust: prevalence, exposure and risk assessment.

[^7^]: IMCJ Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal. Plastic Food Container Safety.

[^8^]: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Acupuncture as Treatment for Female Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.