A recent scoping review examined the effects of perinatal exposure to micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) on neonatal health, focusing on immune and metabolic development. The review combined findings from human tissue studies, animal models, and in vitro experiments to explore how these tiny plastic particles can affect developing babies.
Evidence shows that microplastics and nanoplastics can cross the placenta and accumulate in foetal tissues, including the brain, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. Smaller particles, known as nanoplastics, appear to move more easily across biological barriers and reach deeper into organs. Once inside, these particles can trigger oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially disrupting normal immune system development and metabolic processes.
Studies in animals suggest that early-life MNP exposure may lead to long-term effects such as altered lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, neurodevelopmental changes, and even reproductive toxicity in adulthood. Some findings also indicate that these effects could extend to future generations, likely through epigenetic changes. While direct evidence in humans is limited, microplastics have been detected in placentas, umbilical cord blood, and breast milk, confirming that exposure occurs before and after birth.
The main routes of exposure for pregnant women and newborns include ingestion of contaminated food and beverages, inhalation of airborne particles, and contact with plastic-containing products. Everyday sources, such as disposable cups, infant feeding bottles, and packaging materials, could contribute to this exposure.
Although much of the evidence comes from animal studies, these findings highlight the potential risks posed by micro- and nanoplastics during critical periods of development. The review emphasises the need for standardised methods to measure human exposure, long-term studies to track health outcomes, and public health strategies to reduce exposure during pregnancy and early life.
Bhatt, A. H., Nimbalkar, S. M., Patel, D. V., & Pujara, R. K. (2026). Microplastics exposure during perinatal period: Impacts on neonatal immune and metabolic programming – a scoping review. Journal of Perinatology.
