Experts Warn That Pesticide Exposure May Increase Infertility Risk in Women

Women’s health specialists have raised concerns that exposure to pesticides and insecticides can lead to hormonal imbalance, irregular menstruation, and infertility in women.

The experts also warned that prolonged exposure could trigger respiratory complications, allergies, and infections, with pregnant women and their unborn babies being at higher risk.

According to the World Health Organisation, pesticides are toxic to humans and other living organisms and must be handled and disposed of safely. Similarly, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that pesticide exposure has been linked to hormonal changes, reduced fertility, miscarriages, birth defects, and developmental problems in children. It also noted that some pesticide residues can pass into breast milk, endangering infants.

In Nigeria, concerns over pesticide safety have prompted calls for tighter regulation. The House of Representatives recently urged relevant ministries and agencies to review and phase out highly hazardous pesticides, citing threats to health, the environment, and food security. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has also warned against the importation of banned chemicals, such as Neonicotinoid-based pesticides like Chlorpyrifos.

While those most exposed include farmers, greenhouse workers, and pest-control professionals, many women are also at risk through domestic use of insect sprays, coils, and repellents. Studies show that women farmers often lack protective gear or awareness of the potential dangers.

A fertility specialist at Usmanu Danfodio University, Prof. Abubakar Panti, explained that chemicals such as organophosphates, carbamates, and pyrethroids disrupt hormone regulation and can damage the ovaries, leading to reduced fertility and menstrual irregularities. He noted that these substances interfere with essential reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone, ultimately affecting ovulation and uterine function.

Panti advised women to limit the use of chemical insecticides in their homes and instead adopt safer, non-chemical pest control methods such as mosquito nets, clearing stagnant water, and using natural repellents. For those handling pesticides in agricultural settings, he recommended wearing gloves and masks to reduce skin contact and inhalation.

Also commenting, Prof. Adegboyega Fawole, a gynaecologist at the University of Ilorin, cautioned that pesticide exposure can cause hormonal imbalance and respiratory issues even in non-pregnant women. He stressed the importance of public education on the safe handling of pesticides and encouraged women to consult professionals about safer alternatives.