Impacto de la exposición directa e indirecta a pesticidas en mujeres embarazadas del cantón Milagro año 2025

Pesticide exposure poses a significant threat to maternal and fetal health, especially in regions with high agricultural intensity such as Milagro canton. This study aims to analyze the impact of direct and indirect pesticide exposure on pregnant women in this region during 2023. A descriptive, non-experimental, quantitative methodology was applied. Data were collected through structured surveys administered to a sample of 50 pregnant women classified as exposed to pesticides. The results show that a high percentage of women are directly exposed through agricultural work, while indirect exposure occurs through proximity to sprayed areas, domestic pesticide use, and food and water contamination. A large proportion of women believe that this exposure can cause birth defects. The study’s conclusions highlight the need to strengthen public policies focused on prevention, awareness, and control of pesticide use during pregnancy.