High environmental temperatures and heatwaves are more than just a weather inconvenience as they could be linked to poor pregnancy results, research suggests. Women who are exposed to such heat could go through premature births, experience low birth weight or stillbirths.
As the climate turns warmer, this has been found to take effect on the health of many—including pregnant women—according to a new study from a BMJ journal published on Wednesday (4 November). Matthew Chersich and his team of researchers have conducted this study to figure out whether pregnancy results can be linked to hot weather.
Increasing Hot Days Affecting Pregnancy Results
Chersich and his team looked into 70 studies in 27 countries that have found links between high temperatures and poor pregnancy results. The outcome of their study showed hot environmental temperatures have adverse effects on pregnancies such as premature birth, stillbirth and low birth weight.
The researchers took into account that 15 million babies are born each year prematurely—the leading cause of death among children under 5-years-old—as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Out of the 47 studies that were assessed, 40 reported that premature births were more common during hot days. The results showed that per 1°C increase in the weather’s temperature, the chances of premature birth rose by 5% and even reached 16% during heatwave days.
It was also found that for every 1°C rise in temperature, the risk of stillbirth increases by 5%. Most of the results showed that the link between hot weathers and stillbirth could be seen either in the last month or week of pregnancy.
Meanwhile, only little effect of hot days was seen on the weight of the child. Although the researchers say, “even apparently minor decrements in birth weight could have a major impact on public health as exposure to high temperatures is common and escalating.”
In addition, the study also suggests that pregnant women in low and middle-income countries are the most at risk of the adverse effects of hot weather in pregnancies due to their heat exposure.
Links To Poor Pregnancy Results Don’t End With Just Hot Weather
Image Source: iStock
Meanwhile, researchers noted that there were limitations to their study as they factor in air pollution, which can be another cause of poor pregnancy outcomes. They also acknowledged how there might be differences in temperature between the studies, so it would be hard to confirm the role of weather in pregnancy results.
Despite this, they consider their findings an improvement on the study, saying: “This review suggests that exposures to high temperature might be associated with birth outcomes, with evidence most consistent and effect sizes largest for preterm birth and stillbirth.”
“Overall, the review highlights the need to identify interventions targeting heat-related conditions in pregnant women, especially in women at the age extremes and in lower socioeconomic groups, and to determine their effectiveness,” researches added.
Keeping Cool During Pregnancy: Tips for Mums-to-Be
Dealing with the heat while pregnant can feel like you’re running a marathon in a sauna. But don’t sweat it! Here are some simple ways to stay cool and comfortable during those hot days:
-
Stay Hydrated
Drink up! Water is your best friend. Toss in some lemon or mint for a refreshing twist.
-
Wear Light Clothing
Choose loose, breathable fabrics like cotton to help air circulate and keep you cool.
-
Keep Indoors During Peak Heat
Try to stay inside or in the shade when the sun is at its hottest, usually between 10 AM and 4 PM.
-
Cool Showers
Take a lukewarm or cool shower to bring your body temperature down. Plus, it feels amazing!
-
Use Fans or Air Conditioning
Don’t be shy to crank up the AC or fan to keep your living space comfortable.
-
Swim
If you can, take a dip in a pool. It’s not only refreshing but also great for light exercise.
-
Eat Light
Opt for smaller, lighter meals more often. Heavy meals can make you feel hotter.
Remember, your comfort is key during pregnancy. Keep cool, and take it easy, mama!
Image Source: iStock
This article was published in line with theAsianparent’s initiative Project Sidekicks which aims to help families have healthy pregnancies and babies. Join us as we work on helping reduce the stillbirth rate in Southeast Asia by 10% by creating awareness about the benefits of sleeping on the side during pregnancy, counting the baby’s kicks, giving up smoking and having a strong support system for both mums-to-be and parents who have suffered pregnancy loss. Visit https://project-sidekicks.com/ for more details.
Here at theAsianparent Singapore, it’s important for us to give information that is correct, significant, and timely. But this doesn’t serve as an alternative for medical advice or medical treatment. theAsianparent Singapore is not responsible for those that would choose to drink medicines based on information from our website. If you have any doubts, we recommend consulting your doctor for clearer information.