Why Pregnant Women Should Fear Heatwaves Now
Rising global temperatures are increasing health risks for pregnant women around the world. A new report shows that extreme heat made worse by climate change is now linked to serious pregnancy complications.
What the Report Found
A new study by the U.S.-based research group Climate Central looked at global temperatures from 2020 to 2024. It found that:
- In 222 out of 247 countries, pregnant women are facing at least twice as many dangerously hot days each year compared to before.
- The biggest increases were seen in developing countries, where healthcare is often limited. These include parts of the Caribbean, South America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
Why Extreme Heat Matters in Pregnancy
Being exposed to very high temperatures during pregnancy can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Premature birth
- Stillbirth
- Low birth weight
- Birth defects
- Gestational diabetes
A 2024 study published in Nature Medicine found that heatwaves increase the chance of pregnancy complications by 25%.
More Exposure, but Limited Protection
The report focused on how much more pregnant women are being exposed to extreme heat, but not how many were directly affected. Experts say the growing exposure alone is a major warning.
Dr. Ana Bonell, an expert in maternal health, said this report clearly shows that pregnant women are increasingly at risk. Older adults face similar dangers in extreme heat, she added.
How Heat Affects Pregnant Women
Extreme heat puts extra stress on the body. During pregnancy, this stress can be even more harmful. Heat may affect:
- Blood flow to the baby
- The mother’s ability to stay hydrated
- The function of the placenta
Scientists are still studying exactly how heat causes these complications, but the danger is clear.
What Can Be Done to Reduce the Risk?
Experts agree: climate change is the main cause of these rising temperatures. While long-term action is needed to reduce global warming, local steps can help protect pregnant women now. These include:
- Creating shaded and cool public areas
- Planting more trees and green spaces
- Reducing air pollution
- Educating the public, especially pregnant women, about heat risks
French epidemiologist Dr. Lucie Adelaide says most public health advice on heatwaves does not include warnings for pregnant women. That needs to change.
Conclusion
Extreme heat is becoming more common and more dangerous for pregnant women. Governments, health services, and communities need to act now to reduce risks, raise awareness, and make sure all mothers-to-be are protected from rising temperatures.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
