Underrecognized routes of microplastic exposure in gestating women and neonates – A focused review on sources, risks, alternative interventions and control

During the critical phases of pregnancy, plastic exposure imposes risks to the health of the mother and the developing embryo. Recent reports revealing the occurrence of Microplastics (MPs) in different body fluids, including blood, urine, and sputum, have left the scientific community in shock, compelling further investigation. MPs were found to cross the placental barrier, indicating interference with embryonic development. Serious consequences like preterm birth, spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, and preeclampsia can result from such interferences. Besides, risks of MPs continue after birth, especially neonatal exposure to MP-contaminated materials and food sources. The wide usage of plastic items in maternity wards and surgical stations also poses a risk to the infant immediately following their birth. Reports revealing the presence of MPs in breast milk (0.24–0.39 MPs/gm), cow milk (204–1004 MPs per 100 mL), infant milk food (≥10 MPs/100 g), feeding bottles (209 MPs/bottle) and breast milk storage bags (0.61–0.89 mg/day) have surfaced recently and are a huge concern to obstetricians and gynaecologists. This review reports gestational and neonatal MP exposure under the same roof, emphasizing occupational and nosocomial sources. To control the widespread adversities of MPs and prevent their transmission to the next generations, it is crucial to strike a balance among behavioral changes, lifestyle modifications, substituting conventional plastics, and encouraging collaboration between scientists and policymakers. The current review aims to spread awareness related to adversities posed by MPs on fetal and neonatal health, common sources of MP exposure within the niche population, alternative interventions to plastic items during the critical stages of gestation and lactation, and mitigation strategies, thus bridging the gaps between healthcare, policy making, and sustainability concerns revolving around plastic contamination.