An Invisible Threat: Pesticides and Expectant Mothers
A mother shared her experience, saying
“It felt like all of my skin was burning. It filled my limbs, like, my whole body with little welts”after pesticide exposure.
Rosa, a vineyard worker, was pregnant with her son 14 years ago. At four months pregnant, she continued working to provide for her family. Her son was later diagnosed with autism at 6 months old, which Rosa attributes to pesticide exposure.
This story was originally published by The Tribune, supported by the 2025 California Health Equity Fellowship.
Author's summary: Pesticide exposure threatens expectant mothers and babies.