Jakarta – A recent study from Curtin University, Australia, published in the journal Urban Climate, reveals that exposure to air pollution and extreme temperatures during pregnancy contributes to an increased risk of prolonged pregnancy, the university said in a release on Tuesday, February 11. Prolonged pregnancies, or pregnancies lasting more than 41 weeks, are now of concern to researchers as another impact of environmental change.
The researchers analysed data from more than 400,000 births in Western Australia. The results showed that prolonged gestation was associated with high exposure to PM2.5 fine particulates and biothermal stress- including air temperature, radiant temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and human physiology. Ideally, babies are born within 39-40 weeks of gestation. However, these unfavourable environmental factors trigger hormonal and inflammatory changes in the pregnant woman’s body that can hinder the natural birth process.
“We know that being ‘born too soon’—preterm birth—has well-documented health risks, but little attention has been given to the risks associated with being ‘born too late’,” said Sylvester Dodzi Nyadanu, lead author of the study.
“Our findings show that exposure to air pollution and biothermal stress during pregnancy increases the likelihood of prolonged pregnancies, particularly among mothers over 35 years old, first-time mothers, those living in urban areas, and those with complicated pregnancies,” he said.
Impact of prolonged pregnancy
Pregnancy beyond 41 weeks is not only uncomfortable for the mother but also increases the risk of serious medical complications. Some of the effects of prolonged pregnancy include the risk of stillbirth, which is when the placenta deteriorates over time, reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. Other impacts include labour complications and impaired infant development. The study also showed potential long-term impacts on children’s behavioural and neurological development.
“With more frequent extreme weather events and poor air quality due to climate change, we need to be more aware of the long-term health impacts for mothers and babies,” added Sylvester.
The researchers said the importance of preventive measures to reduce the negative impact of air pollution and extreme temperatures on the health of pregnant women. Some recommendations include improved environmental regulation, protection for pregnant women, and community education and awareness.
In the long run, experts said that scientific, evidence-based policies are needed to maintain maternal and infant health amid increasingly complex environmental challenges. (Hartatik)
