Urgent Action Required to Protect Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health from Climate Change Impacts

Climate hazards such as extreme heat can pose a significant risk to pregnant women and their infants. These hazards have been linked to an increased likelihood of developing complications that lead to adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Examples of such complications include gestational diabetes, hyper tensive disorders of pregnancy, preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth.

In addition to the physical health risks associated with exposure to climate hazards during pregnancy, these events can also have negative impacts on mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression are known risk factors for adverse perinatal outcomes and can be exacerbated by exposure to climate hazards. The effects of these hazards can even contribute to intergenerational trauma.

Poor nutrition, water, hygiene, and sanitation are also significant contributing factors to the risks associated with climate hazards during pregnancy. Ensuring access to adequate resources and addressing these issues is crucial in reducing the impact of climate hazards on maternal and perinatal health outcomes.