Recent studies highlight the dangers of heat for pregnant women and their unborn babies, prompting calls for protective measures. Edrisa Sinjanka, a dedicated midwife in Keneba, Gambia, witnesses firsthand the challenges faced by pregnant women due to soaring temperatures. Many arrive dehydrated, fatigued, and suffering from heat-related symptoms such as headaches.
Sinjanka’s concerns are supported by research led by Ana Bonell from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), which explores how heat stress affects pregnant women working as subsistence farmers in Gambia. The study found that for every 1°C rise in temperature, there was a 17% increase in foetal stress indicators, affecting a third of mothers.
Globally, rising temperatures due to climate change exacerbate these risks. Studies show a clear link between heat exposure during pregnancy and adverse health outcomes such as hypertension, preterm birth, and increased risk of stillbirth. Despite mounting evidence, policies and practical support for pregnant women facing extreme heat remain inadequate in many places.
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Experts emphasize the need for urgent action. Gloria Maimela, leading climate and health research in South Africa, advocates for interventions tailored to protect pregnant women from heat-related risks. Initiatives include early warning systems and community education programs aimed at reducing heat exposure and promoting safer practices during pregnancy.
The challenge, experts argue, lies in translating research into effective policies and practices worldwide. As temperatures continue to rise, addressing heat vulnerability among pregnant women becomes increasingly critical.
