By Abdullahi Lukman
As global temperatures rise due to climate change, experts warn that expectant mothers are increasingly at risk of severe pregnancy complications.
Medical professionals have highlighted that exposure to temperatures exceeding 25°C can significantly increase the chances of dehydration and other health risks, threatening both maternal and fetal well-being.
Dr. Imam Wada Bello, a public health physician and Director of Public Health and Disease Control at the Kano State Ministry of Health, emphasized that climate change is no longer just an environmental issue—it is a public health crisis.
He noted that pregnant women are especially vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat, which can exacerbate pregnancy-related complications such as hypertensive disorders and dehydration.
“When temperatures rise, the risk of dehydration increases dramatically, which can directly impact fetal health, potentially leading to premature birth or miscarriage,” Bello said.
Research from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports these concerns, revealing that heat stress during pregnancy can result in adverse outcomes, including preterm births, low birth weight, and even birth defects.
Additionally, extreme heat often worsens air pollution, which further compounds risks to pregnant women by affecting placental development and increasing the likelihood of blood clots.
Bello further explained that the cardiovascular strain caused by heat, combined with the physiological changes already occurring during pregnancy, puts additional pressure on the body.
He added that high temperatures during any stage of pregnancy could lead to serious health issues for both mother and child.
The mental health implications of extreme heat on pregnant women are also a growing concern.
Bello recommended that pregnant women avoid going outdoors during the hottest periods of the day, especially when temperatures exceed 35°C, and advised that prolonged exposure to temperatures above 25°C should be minimized.
In light of these risks, Bello called for a multi-faceted approach to protect maternal health in the face of rising temperatures.
He advocated for increased public awareness of the connection between climate conditions and pregnancy risks, as well as strategies to manage heat exposure.
Key measures include ensuring proper hydration, creating cooler environments, and implementing environmental interventions like tree planting and green urban development to help mitigate heat.
Bello stressed the importance of ongoing research and public education to monitor and reduce the health risks that climate change poses to expectant mothers.
He advocated for a comprehensive approach that combines medical care, environmental protection, and public awareness.