A new proof-of-concept pilot study published in Toxics suggests that people may be able to reduce the levels of toxic plastic chemicals in their body via lifestyle changes supported by counseling and access to cleaner product options. This study describes the interventions performed on five couples struggling with infertility as a part of the Netflix documentary The Plastic Detox.
In short:
- Most couples who underwent lifestyle changes designed to reduce chemical exposures - such as eating out less, avoiding plastic food containers, and avoiding products with synthetic fragrances - experienced a drop in both their bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalate levels.
- Total motile sperm count increased above subfertile levels for three of the five men, and four of the five couples had children following the intervention.
- Some couples also reported an increase in energy, improved sleep quality, and weight loss.
Key quote:
“I feel it’s a basic human right of every person to have a child if they choose to. Chemicals in our homes or the environment should not interfere with that.”
- Study co-author Dr. Shanna Swan, via The Guardian
Why this matters:
Endocrine disrupting chemicals like bisphenols, phthalates, and other plastic chemicals have been linked with a wide range of severe health impacts, including (but not limited to) cancers, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, neurotoxicity, and reproductive issues. Of the 16,325 chemicals known to be used in plastic, more than 66% have never been tested or assessed for potential hazards, and very few are subject to regulations that would help minimize public exposure. While studies such as this show that people do have the ability to lessen their exposure through their product choices, research has shown that regulatory and policy interventions are more effective, more consistent, and have a more widespread impact than strategies that put the burden on individual consumers to protect themselves.
Related EHN coverage:
- What is an endocrine disrupting chemical?
- LISTEN: A conversation about infertility with Shanna Swan
- Chemical mixtures may impact fertility and IVF success, new study finds
More resources: Environmental Health Sciences provides resources on chemical exposures, including fact sheets on the science of endocrine disruption, the chemicals commonly used in products, and simple ways to reduce your everyday exposure.
- Upcoming webinars with Dr. Shanna Swan:
- The Oceanic Preservation Society created The Plastic Detox Action Hub, with recommendations on how to reduce plastic use in the key areas of your home.
Hua, J. et al. (2026). Targeting Plastic Exposure in Infertile Couples: A Pilot Intervention Study. Toxics.
