Being pregnant in the middle of a heatwave isn’t just uncomfortable; it can have health implications. That constant tiredness, dizziness, or feeling hotter than usual might not be 'normal pregnancy stuff.' As temperatures rise across the country, so do the risks for expecting mothers. Heatwaves can affect everything from your hormones to your baby’s growth and even increase the chances of early labour or complications. And with summers getting hotter each year, it's more important than ever to understand how heat impacts pregnancy and what you can do to stay safe.
We reached out to Dr Aneeta Talwar, Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bengaluru, who explained the impact of heatwave on pregnancy.
How Global Warming Impacts Reproductive Health
“Global warming has a significant impact on the reproductive health of both males and females. Worldwide studies have documented the negative effects of exposure to high temperatures on maternal and newborn health. It also affects the fertility in males and females. In females, it can disrupt female hormones and the menstrual cycle,” said Dr Talwar.
A 2024 study published in the journal JAMA Network Open found that rates of pre-term and early-term births increased when local temperatures surged abnormally for more than four consecutive days.
Also Read: Tackling Heatwave: How Pregnant Women Can Stay Prepared
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Why Pregnant Women Are More Vulnerable
“When a person's body temperature rises, they may suffer from heat stroke or dehydration. Your body naturally protects your baby through your circulation, which helps regulate their development and overall well-being. However, the physiological and anatomical changes during pregnancy challenge maternal thermoregulation, particularly during advanced pregnancy and labour, when it is at its peak,” said Dr Talwar.
This endogenous heat is produced by foetal metabolism, pregnancy weight gain, and exertion of labour and childbirth. This makes it difficult for pregnant women to maintain normothermia (normal body temperature) during periods of heat waves.
Risks of Elevated Body Temperature in Pregnancy
“Antenatally, if the core temperature rises, birth defects and other reproductive problems can be found in patients. There is evidence of embryotoxic effects, leading to early pregnancy losses. The impact of higher core temperature during febrile illnesses on pregnancy can cause miscarriage, pre-term labour, and stillbirth,” added Dr Talwar.
A study published in JAMA found that maternal fever exceeding 38°C (100.4°F) during labour was associated with a significantly increased risk of cerebral palsy in infants of normal birth weight. Specifically, the odds ratio for unexplained cerebral palsy was 9.3, indicating a more than ninefold increase in risk.
Maternal dehydration can also lead to electrolyte imbalances in already burdened cardiovascular and renal systems during pregnancy, with decreased amniotic fluid during extreme heat events.
How Heat Stress Affects the Placenta and Baby
Heat stress affects placental growth, development, and function, leading to low birth weight babies and stillbirth. It can also cause hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, premature rupture of membranes, antenatal and postpartum haemorrhage, and increased rates of emergency cesarean sections.
There are increased incidences of fetal distress, meconium aspiration, neonatal jaundice, and NICU admissions during heat waves. At high ambient temperatures, stress hormones may rise, which can also worsen the mental health and well‐being of pregnant and postpartum women throughout the life course.
Also Read: 8 Things You Need To Know About Labour Before Your Delivery, Expert Weighs In
How Pregnant Women Can Protect Themselves During a Heatwave
Follow these expert-recommended tips to protect yourself and your baby during a heatwave:
- Prevent heat stress by drinking plenty of fluids, 2-3 L per day.
- Avoid hot work environments.
- Wear comfortable, light cotton clothes.
- Stay informed about official heat warnings.
- Stay indoors during peak hours of heat.
- Try to avoid strenuous activities like exercising during peak heat hours.
- Self‐monitor for symptoms of heat illness, especially dizziness, profuse sweating, and fatigue.
- Keep your home cool by opening windows after dark and closing windows and covering them with blinds or shutters to block direct sunlight during the day.
- Use air conditioning and coolers to bring down the temperature.
- Take cool showers or baths.
- Seek immediate medical attention if heat stroke or dehydration occurs.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]