Microplastics Threaten Pregnant Women, IPB University Medical Lecturer Reveals Three Entry Pathways

A recent study discovered that microplastics have entered the human body. The findings revealed the presence of microplastics in the amniotic fluid and urine of pregnant women.

dr Ganot Sumulyo, SpOG, a lecturer in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Faculty of Medicine, IPB University, shared his response to this phenomenon. He explained that microplastics can enter the bodies of pregnant women through three main pathways.

“First, inhalation of air containing dust and plastic fibers, especially in urban areas and enclosed spaces. These extremely small particles have the potential to penetrate the alveoli and enter the bloodstream,” he explained.

Second, he continued, is through the consumption of food and beverages such as bottled water, seafood, and foods that are packaged or heated in plastic. Nanoplastic particles can then pass through the intestinal lining and enter the circulatory system.

“Third, absorption through the skin, although its contribution is very small,” he stated.

dr Ganot explained that the placenta functions as the primary protector of the fetus. However, a number of international studies have found that nano-sized particles are able to pass through this protective layer.

“Microplastics have even been found in the human placenta, meconium, and fetal tissues, indicating potential exposure from within the womb,” he explained.

He added that exposure to microplastics has the potential to trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and disruption of placental function and nutrient flow. Animal studies have also reported impacts such as low birth weight, delayed growth, and altered organ development.

“In addition to the plastic particles themselves, chemical additives such as phthalates and BPA (Bisphenol A) can also disrupt the balance of growth and reproductive hormones,” he stated.

According to him, modern lifestyles likely increase exposure, particularly through the consumption of bottled water, plastic-wrapped foods, heating food in plastic containers, and exposure to synthetic fibers from indoor textiles.

As a solution, he encouraged integrated research efforts on microplastics, ranging from mother-child cohort studies, toxicokinetic research, animal studies with realistic doses, to standardization of detection methods. In addition, education for healthcare workers and the public is key to reducing exposure risks in a practical and gradual manner.

“There is also a need for public education regarding the wise use of plastic materials, especially for pregnant women. Microplastics are not just an environmental issue, but a future reproductive health challenge,” he concluded. (AS) (IAAS/AVM)