“Protecting Moms-to-Be: The Hidden Dangers of Heat During Pregnancy”

PHILADELPHIA—Jaquanna Lomax, a newly trained doula based in Philadelphia, is already thinking about the challenges that high temperatures can pose for pregnant women as summer approaches. With the Northeast being the nation’s fastest warming region due to climate change, Lomax, a mother of two herself, understands the difficulties of being pregnant during the hot summer months.

A recent study published in the Journal of American Medical Association has confirmed Lomax’s concerns, showing a link between heatwaves and an increased risk of preterm and early births among pregnant individuals, especially those with low incomes. The study, which examined over 50 million births in the nation’s largest metropolitan areas over a 25-year period, found that for every 1 degree Celsius increase in temperature during a heatwave, the risk of early or preterm birth increased by 1 percent.

Factors such as the age of the mother, race, ethnicity, and educational achievement also played a role in the risks associated with early and preterm births. Experts emphasize the importance of public awareness about the dangers of heatwaves, not just for pregnant individuals but for the general population as well.

Other studies have also highlighted the impact of environmental factors like air pollution on pregnancy outcomes, further emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to addressing health disparities. Researchers and advocates are calling for better public health messaging to ensure that the information from these studies reaches clinicians, caretakers, and the general public.

Jaquanna Lomax, who attended a symposium on heat and maternal health, believes that heat will become a crucial part of prenatal health discussions in the future. She emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated and taking care of oneself during pregnancy, regardless of the external temperatures. Lomax’s dedication to promoting maternal health and well-being serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care during pregnancy, especially in a warming world.

As the conversation around climate change and its impact on health continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the intersection of environmental factors like heat and air pollution with pregnancy outcomes. By raising awareness and taking proactive measures to address these risks, we can better protect the health of expectant mothers and their babies in a changing climate.