Can Climate Change Prolong Pregnancy?

The impact of climate change on human health is becoming an increasing concern, particularly when it comes to vulnerable populations like pregnant women. Recent research has begun to shed light on how environmental factors such as air pollution and extreme weather conditions can influence pregnancy outcomes. While much attention has been focused on the risks of preterm birth, a new study by Curtin University suggests that climate-related factors may also increase the risk of prolonged pregnancy, leading to a range of complications for both mother and baby. This discovery raises important questions about how climate change may affect antenatal health and what can be done to mitigate these risks. In this article, we will explore the findings of the Curtin University study, delve into how air pollution and extreme temperatures can prolong pregnancy, and discuss steps that pregnant women can take during their antenatal care to reduce the impact of climate change on their health.

How Climate Change Affects Pregnancy

The study, led by Dr Sylvester Dodzi Nyadanu from Curtin University, analysed data from nearly 400,000 births in Western Australia. It found that higher exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) and biothermal stress (a measure that combines air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and other environmental factors) was associated with an increased likelihood of pregnancies lasting beyond 41 weeks. While preterm birth has been well-documented as a risk associated with climate-related stressors, this research is the first to examine the relationship between prolonged pregnancies and environmental exposures. Prolonged pregnancies, also known as post-term pregnancies, occur when labour doesn’t begin by 42 weeks of gestation. While it is natural for some pregnancies to extend beyond the due date, being “born too late” can lead to significant health risks for both mother and baby, including the need for medical interventions like labour induction or caesarean sections, an increased risk of stillbirth, birth complications, and long-term issues such as early childhood behavioural problems. This underscores the importance of paying close attention to antenatal care and the potential role that environmental factors may play in pregnancy outcomes.

Air Pollution and Pregnancy

Air pollution, particularly exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), has long been linked to a range of adverse health outcomes, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. However, its impact on pregnancy outcomes is a relatively new area of study. According to the Curtin University research, exposure to PM2.5 during pregnancy was associated with a higher likelihood of prolonged gestation, especially among women over 35, first-time mothers, and those living in urban areas. PM2.5 particles are tiny and can be easily inhaled, reaching deep into the lungs and entering the bloodstream. This can trigger inflammatory responses that may interfere with the hormonal regulation needed for labour to begin, thus extending pregnancy duration. Women living in areas with poor air quality should take extra precautions to limit their exposure to pollution, such as staying indoors on days with high pollution levels and using air purifiers at home as part of their pregnancy care routine.

Biothermal Stress and Its Impact on Pregnancy

In addition to air pollution, the study also examined the effects of biothermal stress, which refers to the combined stress of extreme temperatures, humidity, and other climatic factors on the body. Biothermal stress has been linked to an increased risk of both preterm and prolonged pregnancies. The body’s response to extreme temperatures can disrupt endocrine and inflammatory processes, which play a critical role in the timing of labour. The findings suggest that pregnant women exposed to high levels of biothermal stress may experience a disruption in the natural onset of labour, leading to prolonged pregnancies. This risk may be exacerbated in areas experiencing extreme heatwaves or colder-than-usual winters, both of which are becoming more common due to climate change.

The Role of Antenatal Care in Reducing Risks

While the impact of climate change on pregnancy outcomes is concerning, there are steps that expectant mothers can take to mitigate these risks. Antenatal care plays a vital role in monitoring maternal health and addressing any complications that may arise during pregnancy. Regular antenatal checkups allow healthcare providers to monitor the baby’s growth and development, as well as the mother’s overall health, including blood pressure, heart rate, and exposure to environmental stressors. For women who are concerned about the impact of climate-related factors on their pregnancy, it is important to discuss these concerns with their healthcare provider during antenatal appointments. This can include identifying strategies to minimise exposure to air pollution, such as using indoor air filters, avoiding outdoor activities during high-pollution days, and monitoring local weather forecasts for extreme temperature events. Antenatal education is also essential for expectant mothers to understand the potential risks and how to protect themselves and their baby. Antenatal classes near me often cover topics such as antenatal fitness, nutrition, and relaxation techniques, which can all play a role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy despite environmental challenges.

Antenatal Fitness and Relaxation During Pregnancy

Staying physically active during pregnancy is an important aspect of maintaining overall health, and it may also help to reduce the impact of environmental stressors on the body. Antenatal yoga and prenatal yoga are excellent ways to stay active while promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can help the body cope with environmental factors like heat and pollution. Yoga during pregnancy focuses on gentle stretching, controlled breathing, and mindfulness, which can help to reduce stress hormones and support the body’s natural processes. Attending pregnancy yoga classes is a great way for expectant mothers to stay fit while also building a sense of community with other pregnant women. In addition to yoga, antenatal massage can provide physical relief and emotional relaxation. Prenatal massage is designed to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation during pregnancy, which can be particularly beneficial for women experiencing the effects of environmental stressors. The pregnancy massage benefits include reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and relief from joint pain, all of which contribute to a healthier pregnancy.

What Pregnant Women Can Do to Stay Safe

With the ongoing effects of climate change, it’s more important than ever for pregnant women to take proactive steps to protect their health and the health of their baby. This includes:

• Monitoring air quality: Pay attention to air quality forecasts and avoid outdoor activities on days when pollution levels are high. Consider using air purifiers at home to reduce indoor pollution.
• Staying cool during heatwaves: During periods of extreme heat, stay indoors, use fans or air conditioning, and stay hydrated. Wear light clothing and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
• Practising relaxation techniques: Incorporate relaxation during pregnancy by practising yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
• Attending regular antenatal appointments: Regular pregnancy clinic visits allow healthcare providers to monitor the progress of the pregnancy and address any potential complications related to environmental exposures.
• Eating a balanced diet: A nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall health and helps the body cope with environmental stress. Taking antenatal vitamins can also ensure that both mother and baby are getting the nutrients they need. The Curtin University study provides valuable insights into how climate change may be affecting pregnancy outcomes, particularly by increasing the risk of prolonged pregnancies. With air pollution and extreme temperatures on the rise, it is crucial for pregnant women to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect their health during the antenatal period. By attending regular antenatal checkups, staying active with antenatal yoga, and minimising exposure to environmental stressors, expectant mothers can take control of their pregnancy health and reduce the risks associated with prolonged pregnancy. As climate change continues to pose new challenges to maternal health, healthcare providers, policymakers, and pregnant women alike must work together to ensure that the next generation is born into a safer, healthier world.