New Research: Extreme Heat Doubles Pregnancy Risks for Working Women
New research from India has found that working in extreme heat can double the risk of stillbirth and miscarriage for pregnant women. This alarming discovery sheds light on the significant risks that mothers-to-be face in hot climates, including tropical regions like India and even countries such as the UK.
The study, conducted by the Faculty of Public Health at the Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER) in Chennai, involved 800 pregnant women in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Half of the participants worked in high-heat environments such as agriculture, brick kilns, and salt flats, while the other half worked in cooler settings like schools and hospitals.
Prof. Jane Hirst, a scientist involved in the study, emphasized the relative nature of the impact of heat on pregnant women. She highlighted the need for specific health advice for working pregnant women globally, given the potential risks identified in the research.
One of the study participants, Sumathy, shared her experience of working in extreme heat while pregnant. Despite taking precautions, including wearing gloves to protect her hands while picking cucumbers, Sumathy suffered a miscarriage at 12 weeks into her pregnancy. Her story underscores the challenges faced by pregnant women working in hot conditions.
The study’s findings have broader implications beyond India, according to Prof. Hirst. As global temperatures continue to rise, pregnant women in all parts of the world may be at increased risk of pregnancy complications due to heat exposure.
While there is currently no official international guidance for pregnant women working in hot environments, researchers recommend measures such as avoiding prolonged heat exposure, taking regular shade breaks, and staying hydrated. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms behind how heat affects pregnant women and their babies.
As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, the study’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect the health and well-being of pregnant women, particularly those working in extreme heat conditions.