Microplastics Health Risk: If you chew gum all day, be careful, as it could be a problem when becoming a father.
Microplastics In Human Body: A 2025 study found that microplastics were present in 69 percent of samples from women undergoing fertility treatment and 55 percent of samples from men.
Does chewing gum affect male fertility?
Does Chewing Gum Affect Male Fertility? Grabbing coffee on the way to work, chewing gum all day, or wearing gym wear are all part of our everyday habits. But now experts are warning that these seemingly innocuous things can impact your fertility. Chewing gum, in particular, while seemingly simple, can pose a significant threat. Let's explain how it affects your fertility.
What do experts say?
According to fertility expert Dr. Phoebe Howells, the reason behind this is microplastics. These are extremely small plastic particles that enter our bodies from things around us, such as packaging, clothing, and even chewing gum. Recent research has revealed that chewing a single piece of gum can release hundreds of microplastic particles into the body, most of which are released within the first few minutes. These particles gradually accumulate in the body and affect the hormonal system.
What is the effect on men and women?
Dr. Howells explains that chemicals in microplastics, such as BPA, phthalates, and PFAS, can disrupt the body's hormones. In men, they can affect sperm count, quality, and movement, while in women, they can impact ovulation and menstrual cycles.
What came out in the research
A 2025 study presented at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that 69 percent of samples from women undergoing fertility treatment and 55 percent from men contained microplastics. A 2024 study from the University of New Mexico also found microplastics in human testicular tissue.
What things cause problems?
The problem isn't limited to chewing gum. Tea bags, takeaway coffee cups, plastic containers, and synthetic clothing are all major sources of microplastics. Especially when exposed to hot objects, they release more particles, which then reach the body directly. Doctors say that it's impossible to completely eliminate plastic from life because it's present everywhere. However, small changes can help reduce its impact, such as using glass or ceramic instead of plastic, wearing loose-fitting and natural fabrics, and choosing natural alternatives over chewing gum.
Fertility isn't just dependent on age or diet, but our surroundings also play a significant role. If you're planning to become a parent in the future, it's important to pay attention to these small habits. Because sometimes the things that seem most normal to us can have the greatest impact in the long run.