Climate change increasing risk of pregnancy problems: Study

As global temperatures continue to rise due to the effects of climate change, a new report has highlighted the increased risk of dangerous complications during pregnancies worldwide. The report, released by the US-based research group Climate Central, emphasizes the impact of scorching heat waves on expectant mothers.

Exposure to extreme heat during pregnancy has been linked to a range of issues, including a higher risk of premature birth, stillbirth, birth defects, and gestational diabetes. The report sought to quantify the increase in heat exposure for pregnant women since 2020 and attribute it to climate change.

In a study of 247 countries and territories, researchers found that climate change had at least doubled the average annual number of days pregnant women were exposed to excessive heat in the past five years. The most significant increases were observed in developing countries with limited access to healthcare, such as those in the Caribbean, Central and South America, the Pacific islands, Southeast Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa.

While the report focused on the rise in potentially dangerous hot days, it did not assess the actual impact on pregnant women in these regions. Ana Bonell, a maternal health and extreme heat researcher, noted that the findings underscore the growing risk of extreme heat exposure for pregnant women and the elderly.

Research has shown that heat waves can increase the likelihood of pregnancy complications. A study published in Nature Medicine in 2024 found that heat waves raise the odds of experiencing a complication during pregnancy by 1.25 times. Experts recommend both global efforts to combat climate change and local initiatives to mitigate the impact of extreme heat.

Local policies such as greening neighborhoods, reducing pollution, creating cool areas, and raising awareness about heat-related risks can help communities cope with rising temperatures. French epidemiologist Lucie Adelaide suggests including warnings for pregnant women in heat wave health advisories, as they are currently not extensively addressed in such efforts.

Overall, the report highlights the urgent need for action to address the health risks posed by climate change-induced heat waves, especially for vulnerable populations like pregnant women. By implementing targeted strategies and raising awareness, communities can better protect the health and well-being of expectant mothers in a warming world.

© 2025 AFP