Discovery Of Microplastics In Human Penises Raises Questions Around Erectile Dysfunction

The use of plastic is rampant all globally despite its anti-environmental nature. However, the fine particles in widely used plastic products, such as microplastic, have polluted land, air and water. A recent discovery of these microplastics in the human penises as well have sent shockwaves worldwide.

According to a report in The Guardian, microplastics have been discovered in this male reproductive part for the first time. This discovery has raised questions about a potential role in erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or maintain an erection long enough to have sexual intercourse.

This revelation came to light after the pollutants were recently detected in testes, semen and blood. Experts told The Guardian that male fertility has decreased in recent decades and more research on the potential harm of microplastics to reproduction is imperative.

According to the researchers, the penis could be particularly at risk of contamination with microplastics due to increased blood flow during erections. People ingest microplastics through eating, drinking and breathing. In the study conducted by the researchers, the assessed tissue was taken from five men who were undergoing surgery related to erectile dysfunction. Microplastics were found in four cases, with PET (polyethene terephthalate) and polypropylene being the most prevalent. Both microplastics are used in food and drink packaging and other everyday items.

According to The Guardian report, there appears to be widespread contamination of people’s bodies with microplastics. The impact on health is as yet unknown but microplastics have been shown to cause damage to human cells in the laboratory.

Microplastics have made their way into single-use water bottles and food items as well. These items include to-go containers, food cans, and storage wraps – everyday items that make up an important portion of plastic-based food packaging. The type of plastic packaging used, along with factors like heating food in plastic and extended storage times, influences the migration of microplastics. These factors also influence the potentially harmful chemicals in our diets.

Harmful Effects of Microplastics

1. Microplastics can impair immune health which can lead to poor gut system.

2. They can also lead to type 2 diabetes and heart disease.