Eight distinct polymers were identifiedResearchers detected microplastics in all semen samples, with an average of two particles per sample (ranging from 0.72 to 7.02 μm).
Eight distinct polymers were identified, with polystyrene (31 %) being the most prevalent.
Semen exposed to polystyrene demonstrated higher sperm progressive motility compared to the polyvinyl chloride exposure group, the researchers claimed.
While sperm morphological abnormalities were observed, they were not significantly associated with specific plastic types, according to the study.
Lower sperm motilityResearchers also found lower sperm motility in samples that contained polyvinyl chloride plastic bits, a key observation that could help explain the decline in fertility rates.
Eight distinct polymers were identified
Researchers detected microplastics in all semen samples, with an average of two particles per sample (ranging from 0.72 to 7.02 μm). Eight distinct polymers were identified, with polystyrene (31 %) being the most prevalent.
Semen exposed to polystyrene demonstrated higher sperm progressive motility compared to the polyvinyl chloride exposure group, the researchers claimed.
While sperm morphological abnormalities were observed, they were not significantly associated with specific plastic types, according to the study.
Lower sperm motility
Researchers also found lower sperm motility in samples that contained polyvinyl chloride plastic bits, a key observation that could help explain the decline in fertility rates.
From the depths of the world’s oceans to the upper atmosphere, microplastics are found almost everywhere. Previous research has suggested that the average person consumes about one credit card’s equivalent of plastic each week.
