Hematological and Histological Effects of Pesticide Mixtures in Postpartum and Non-Postpartum Female Wistar Rats

This study investigated the hematological and histopathological impacts of pesticide mixtures—dichlorvos, dimethoate, and cypermethrin—on postpartum and non-postpartum female Wistar albino rats. A total of 64 female rats were divided into eight groups (A–H), each exposed to specific pesticide combinations over 28 days. Groups B, C, and D received individual pesticides, while Groups E–H were exposed to mixtures, simulating environmental pesticide exposure scenarios. Hematological analysis revealed significant reductions in red blood cell counts (RBC) and hemoglobin (HB) levels, with Group B (dichlorvos) showing the most pronounced decreases (RBC: 7.25 ± 0.19 × 10⁶/mm³; HB: 11.31 ± 0.30 g/dL). Platelet counts were elevated in exposed groups, notably Group F (dichlorvos + cypermethrin: 293.16 ± 4.09 × 10³/mm³). Postpartum rats demonstrated enhanced resilience, maintaining higher RBC and HB levels compared to non-postpartum counterparts across all groups. Histopathological examination of the uterus and ovaries revealed extensive damage in pesticide-exposed groups. Uterine tissues exhibited ulcerations, stromal degeneration, and inflammatory infiltration, with Group H (dichlorvos + dimethoate + cypermethrin) showing severe ulceration and stromal infiltration. Ovarian tissues presented with follicular degeneration and stromal congestion, most severe in Group H, where only one viable follicle was observed. These findings highlight the compounded toxic effects of pesticide mixtures, with postpartum physiology providing partial protective adaptations. The study underscores the need for stringent regulation of pesticide use and further exploration of physiological mechanisms mitigating toxicity in reproductive contexts.