Pregnancy and Extreme Heat - How Online Information is Limited in Results

Recent research reveals the dangerous lack of information available regarding exposure to extreme heat for pregnant women. Vulnerable populations are more likely to suffer from exposure to high temperatures, including expecting mothers. Research led by Robyn Stassen, DrPH graduate of UTHealth Houston School of Public Health in San Antonio, recently published online by Cambridge University Press, uncovered a critical gap in public health communications, specifically a lack of online information available to pregnant women about the dangers of heat exposure.  

Through a comprehensive analysis of federal, state, and city websites, she discovered that only a small fraction of sites identified pregnant women as at risk from heat, and even fewer provided detailed information on the associated risks.  

The article, published in March of 2024, emphasized the threatening consequences of heat exposure during pregnancy, including preterm birth, stillbirth, and congenital disabilities. During the analysis, Stassen noted only seven of the near-ninety government sites recognized pregnant people as a vulnerable population.  

Despite significant scientific literature indicating health risks for pregnant women, public health messaging often failed to communicate such risks thoroughly nor effectively. Stassen said finding this gap in communication made her realize the need for better public health strategies and for further research on the topic. 

“Pregnant women should be made aware of their increased vulnerability to heat exposure and take extra precautions to stay safe,” said Stassen. 

The study emphasizes the importance of public awareness and general understanding of preventative strategies to safeguard the health and well-being of expectant mothers and their fetus. It calls for enhanced community support, access to cool environments, and hydration recommendations specifically targeted at pregnant people during the hotter months. Moreover, it advocates for the inclusion of heat risk mitigation in prenatal care programs. 

“Our research is hopefully initiating a public health response to make this information more readily available,” said Stassen on sharing recommendations. “Precautions include drinking plenty of fluid/water; avoiding alcohol, caffeine, or sugary drinks; staying cool; wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes; limiting outdoor activity to cooler times of the day; and eliminating outdoor activity if possible, during extreme heat.” 

Protecting vulnerable populations from the impacts of climate change is imperative. This study acts as a crucial call to action for policymakers, healthcare providers, health communicators, and communities to develop and communicate pertinent information to expecting parents.