Exposure to Air Pollution and Extreme Temperatures can Prolong Pregnancy

Research conducted by Curtin University has found that exposure to outdoor air pollution and extreme temperatures during pregnancy can increase the risk of prolonged pregnancy, providing new insights into the effects of climate change on maternal health.

How Air Pollution Increases the Likelihood of Prolonged Pregnancy

The study analyzed data from nearly 400,000 births in Western Australia and found that higher exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and biothermal stress (a measure that combines air temperature, radiation temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and human physiology) was associated with pregnancies lasting longer than 41 weeks. The study’s lead author, Dr. Sylvester Dodzi Nyadanu from Curtin’s School of Population Health, said that while climate pollution has long been linked to preterm births, this is the first study to examine its impact on longer pregnancies. We know that “too early birth” – that is, premature birth – carries well-documented health risks, but little attention has been paid to the risks of “too late birth,” Dr. Nyadanu said.

“Our results show that exposure to air pollution and biothermal stress during pregnancy increases the likelihood of prolonged pregnancy, particularly among mothers over 35, first-time mothers, women living in urban areas, and women with complicated pregnancies. Environmental stressors, including climate-related stressors during pregnancy, are associated with stress responses in the mother and resulting disruptions in hormone balance and inflammatory activity, which increase toward the end of pregnancy. This can either lead to a shortening of the pregnancy and thus to preterm birth or, in some cases, to a prolongation of the pregnancy.”

Preventive Measures to Reduce Climate-Related Health Risks

Dr. Nyadanu said that prolonged pregnancy can have serious health consequences for both mother and child, including the need for medical interventions such as induction or cesarean section, an increased risk of stillbirth, birth complications, infant mortality, behavioral and emotional problems in early childhood, and emotional effects on families. “With climate change leading to more frequent extreme weather events and deteriorating air quality, it is essential that we recognize the potential impacts on the health of mothers and children,” said Dr. Nyadanu.

Healthcare providers, policymakers, and pregnant women—especially those from vulnerable groups—should consider climate-related stresses when assessing pregnancy risks and planning interventions. This study underscores the need for targeted policy and prevention measures to reduce climate-related health risks, including better air quality regulations and public health initiatives to protect pregnant women and children from extreme climatic conditions.”