While there are potential dangers for pregnant women, most people don’t think of heat waves as being one of them. However, too much heat can put pregnant women at risk for early labor, low birthweight, and stillborn babies. As the temperatures across the globe slowly rise from the effects of climate change, excessive heat waves in the summer months are adding to the risks that women face when they are carrying children.

These extreme heat waves can cause serious issues for women who are low income and may not have a working air conditioner or fan in their homes during their pregnancy. Women are told to stay hydrated when they’re pregnant, but they aren’t often told about the risks of extreme heat. As their body temperature rises, the temperature of the amniotic fluid surrounding their baby also rises. Too much heat in that fluid can cause multiple risks for the mother and her unborn child.

It’s not always an option to stay out of the heat, though. That’s especially true for inner-city mothers, and for those in more rural areas. Sadly, Black mothers are less likely to voice their concerns and ask questions, making the rising heat of climate change far more risky during their pregnancies. They also have higher rates of maternal death, fetal death, and other complications, which climate change is only increasing.

Summer heat has always been a potential risk for expectant mothers. With climate change continuing to raise those temperatures in the summer months, the risk is on the rise, as well. 

More education and awareness on the risks of extreme heat during pregnancy can help potential mothers and their unborn babies. It is also important to stay inside and find ways to stay cool during heat waves. 

At The Surrogacy Law Center, we help intended parents and surrogates manage the legal aspects of surrogacy agreements and other aspects of assisted reproduction, helping protect the rights of parents and their children-to-be, as well as surrogates. To learn more, contact us today!