Have microplastics been found in menstrual fluid and amniotic fluid?

What's actually in it

Microplastics have been found in blood, lungs, liver, and stool. But researchers recently looked somewhere new: reproductive fluids. Menstrual fluid comes from the uterine lining, and amniotic fluid surrounds the baby during pregnancy. If microplastics are in these fluids, it means they've reached some of the most protected tissues in the body.

Women are exposed to microplastics through food, water, air, and also through products that contact reproductive areas directly: menstrual pads, tampons, and underwear.

What the research says

A 2026 study in Sci Total Environ used multiple analytical techniques to look for microplastics in menstrual fluid and amniotic fluid. Using more than one method increases confidence that the findings are real and not lab contamination.

The researchers found microplastic particles in both fluid types. The most common plastics detected were polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyester, materials found in food packaging, clothing fibers, and personal hygiene products.

Finding microplastics in amniotic fluid means the particles have crossed the placenta and reached the space surrounding the developing baby. Finding them in menstrual fluid confirms that the uterine lining itself is exposed.

Reducing reproductive exposure means choosing organic cotton menstrual products, natural fiber underwear, and reducing overall plastic food and water contact. Every source you eliminate lowers the number of particles reaching these sensitive tissues.