Netflix documentary 'The Plastic Detox': what science says about plastic and fertility

On March 16, 2026, the documentary The Plastic Detox, directed by Louie Psihoyos and Josh Murphy, premiered on Netflix. The film follows six couples struggling with unexplained fertility problems, as they drastically reduce their plastic exposure over three months, guided by renowned reproductive epidemiologist Dr. Shanna H. Swan (Mount Sinai, New York). The documentary is based on a peer-reviewed scientific article, published in the journal Toxics, led by Jenna Hua from Million Marker Wellness Inc.^[1] In this blog, we discuss the key findings — and place them in the broader scientific context.

What are microplastics and why are they a problem?

Microplastics are tiny fragments of plastic that form as larger plastic objects gradually break down. They are ingested and inhaled by humans, and there is evidence that they can also be absorbed through the skin.^[2] Recent research has found microplastics in human blood, placentas, and even in testicles – with concentrations three times higher than in placental tissue.^[3]

Plastic also contains chemical additives that are added during production, two groups of which are central to the documentary:

Bisphenols (such as BPA): substances that make plastic hard and transparent, but are also found in thermal paper such as till receipts. Research shows that BPA disrupts egg maturation, negatively affects IVF outcomes, and reduces sperm production in men.^[4]

Phthalates: plasticizers that make plastic flexible and durable, found in countless everyday products from shampoo bottles and cosmetics to packaging film and synthetic clothing. A systematic review of epidemiological research found robust evidence that exposure to DEHP and DBP – two commonly used phthalates – is associated with reduced sperm quality and lower testosterone levels.^[5]

Both groups are so-called endocrine disruptors (EDCs): they can disrupt the body's hormonal signaling system. According to the Endocrine Society, this is linked to damage to eggs and sperm, reduced chances of embryo implantation, and — in men — genital developmental abnormalities.^[6] In women, EDCs are associated with endometriosis, fibroids, and ovarian cysts.

The intervention study: design and method

The study on which the documentary is based tested whether personalized education, product replacement, and weekly coaching could lead to measurable changes in fertility-related biomarkers in six couples. The researchers measured urinary metabolites of phthalates, environmental phenols, benzophenones, and BPA over a twelve-week period. At the same time, sperm parameters were measured in men.^[1]

It is important to emphasize that this is a pilot study without a control group. The findings are used by Dr. Swan as substantiation for an application for a larger, government-funded follow-up study.

What are the results?

The results are striking:

BPA levels dropped to undetectable. In many participants, the amount of BPA in the urine dropped below the detection limit by the end of the intervention. Directional reductions were also observed for mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP) and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP).^[1]

Sperm parameters improved in some men. As a group, no statistically significant changes in semen quality were measured, but individually some men saw clinically relevant improvements in sperm parameters. This is consistent with earlier research showing that reducing phthalate exposure can lead to improved sperm quality.^[7]

Behavioral change and awareness increased. Participants reported improved knowledge of environmental health, greater motivation to reduce exposure, and improved general well-being. This suggests that coaching and education are valuable additions to mere product replacement.

Five areas of focus according to Dr. Swan

In addition to removing obvious plastic products from the home, Dr. Swan emphasized five specific areas of focus in the documentary:

Food and beverage packaging

Avoid food and drinks in plastic packaging as much as possible. Heating is particularly concerning: when plastic containers are used in the microwave or exposed to high temperatures, chemicals can leach into the food. Research shows that people who regularly eat from plastic packaging have significantly higher levels of phthalates and BPA in their bodies.^[8]

Personal care products

Shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and cosmetics often contain phthalates and other EDCs. One study found that women who switched to phthalate-free personal care products saw a significant decrease in phthalate metabolites in their urine within a few days.^[9] Alternatives such as toothpaste tablets in metal tins or plastic-free cosmetics are available.

Synthetic clothing

Polyester and other synthetic fibers can release chemicals through the skin — and this is especially relevant during exercise, when body temperature rises and the skin absorbs more. Recent research showed that microplastics from textiles can release toxic chemicals when they come into contact with sweat, making these substances available for absorption through the skin.^[10] Organic cotton sportswear is therefore a conscious choice: it is not only comfortable, but also reduces your daily exposure to plastic-related substances.

Household products

Wooden cutting boards instead of plastic, glass or stainless steel storage containers, and avoiding plastic kitchen utensils are concrete steps. Studies show that plastic cutting boards release significantly more microplastics than wooden alternatives, especially with intensive use.^[11]

Till receipts and thermal paper

These contain BPA or BPS and are absorbed through skin contact. Research shows that even brief contact with till receipts can lead to measurable BPA levels in the urine within hours.^[12]

Critical notes and nuance

The scientific community has reacted with nuance to the documentary. On the one hand, experts like Dr. Swan and Dr. Kahn (another fertility specialist in the film) support the findings as consistent with a broader scientific literature confirming the risks of EDCs. On the other hand, they emphasize that the pilot study has limitations: the sample size is small, there is no control group, and causal links between plastic reduction and fertility improvement cannot be definitively established.

An important insight that both experts emphasize: individual behavioral change, while effective, is not a structural solution. "The little you can do yourself can, of course, have some effect," says Dr. Kahn, "but we all need to advocate for stronger regulation." The documentary also places this in a broader historical context: the broken promises of the plastics industry, the limited success of recycling, and the legal and political struggle to hold polluting companies accountable.

What can you do yourself?

Based on the findings from the documentary and supporting scientific research, there are concrete steps you can take today:

• Use glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers instead of plastic for food storage
• Avoid heating food in plastic containers or with plastic wrap
• Opt for natural fibers such as organic cotton, especially for sportswear that has prolonged skin contact
• Switch to phthalate-free personal care products and cosmetics
• Decline till receipts or wash your hands after touching them
• Choose fresh, unpackaged foods over plastic-packaged products
• Use a water filter to remove microplastics from drinking water

How GOTS and OEKO-TEX protect against BPA and phthalates

The two substances central to The Plastic Detox – bisphenols (BPA) and phthalates – are precisely the chemicals against which GOTS and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 offer protection. Our sportswear is rigorously tested and certified to ensure that these endocrine disruptors are not in your clothing.

The difference in approach: GOTS prevents BPA and phthalates from entering the production chain in the first place, while OEKO-TEX 100 tests the final product to confirm that harmful residues remain below safe limits. Together, both certifications offer the highest protection against precisely the substances that The Plastic Detox warns about.

Conclusion: reason for action, not panic

The Plastic Detox succeeds in making complex scientific insights accessible to a broad audience. The core message is twofold: first, exposure to plastic-related chemicals is a real and serious health risk, even at chronically low levels; second, individual adjustments can make a measurable difference — and that is empowering. It is never too late to start.

At the same time, responsibility should not solely be placed on the individual. Structural regulation of EDCs in consumer goods, packaging materials, and textiles is necessary to reduce exposure at a societal level. The pilot study underlying the documentary is a first step in what will hopefully grow into a robust research program — one that further deepens our understanding of the relationship between plastic and human health.

The choices you make today can make a difference tomorrow. By choosing natural materials in your sportswear, you take a concrete step in the right direction – not only for your own health, but also for your fertility. At NOHI NATURAL, we understand that every fiber that touches your skin matters. That's why we only work with GOTS-certified organic cotton: free from BPA, free from phthalates, and kind to your body. It's a conscious choice that doesn't compromise on comfort or performance. Discover our collection and experience for yourself how natural materials feel – and what they can do for you.