Heat Waves in Summer and Increased Risk of Miscarriage: Causes, Symptoms, and Protection Tips

Overview:

Medical experts confirm that heat waves during summer affect pregnant women’s bodies more severely than others. Exposure to high temperatures (35–45°C) can have lasting effects beyond the heat wave period and is linked to increased risk of miscarriage. In fact, miscarriage rates and the risk of fetal death can double during these hot months.

Dr. Ahmed Bakri, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, explains:

Causes of Miscarriage: Multiple and Varied

Miscarriage causes are not limited to summer heat but also relate to fetal development and maternal health, especially during the first trimester. Common causes include:

Chromosomal abnormalities: The leading cause of early miscarriage; errors in chromosome number or structure.
Birth defects: Severe congenital malformations incompatible with fetal survival.
Implantation issues: Failure of the fertilized egg to properly attach to the uterine lining.
Maternal age: Risk rises significantly after age 35.
Maternal health conditions: Uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases.
Uterine or cervical problems: Structural abnormalities or cervical incompetence.
Infections: Rubella, herpes virus, toxoplasmosis.
Passive smoking: Exposure to secondhand smoke increases risk.
Medications: Certain drugs like antidepressants may elevate miscarriage risk.
Environmental factors: Repeated miscarriages might be linked to genetic or immune factors and environmental toxins or radiation.

In many cases, the cause remains unknown, and miscarriage is a relatively common event, especially in early pregnancy.

Symptoms of Miscarriage in Early Pregnancy

Bleeding: First and most common sign; may start as spotting and progress to heavier bleeding. It can also indicate other complications like ectopic pregnancy, so medical advice is essential.
Lower abdominal cramps: Often more severe than normal menstrual pain and increase with bleeding.
Disappearance of pregnancy symptoms: Sudden loss of nausea, breast tenderness, and fatigue after they appeared may indicate miscarriage.

Research Linking Summer Heat to Miscarriage Risk

A study by Boston University’s School of Public Health monitored 6,104 pregnant women over six months and found:

A 44% increase in miscarriage rates in late August and early September (peak heat period).
The risk dropped to 31% in February (cooler months).
High external temperatures combined with naturally elevated body temperatures in pregnant women (above 39°C) increase risks of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration.
Dehydration symptoms like dizziness can lead to falls, which risk miscarriage or placental abruption.
Heat-induced dehydration can also trigger Braxton Hicks contractions (false labor pains).
Another study linked heat waves to increased congenital heart defects in newborns.

Summer Safety Tips for Pregnant Women

Eat plenty of water-rich foods (fruits, vegetables) and drink natural juices.
Avoid direct sun exposure, especially during outdoor activities.
Stay in cool, well-ventilated places.
Wear loose, light-colored clothing.
Avoid going outdoors during heat waves.
Reduce physical exertion, especially strenuous activity.
Seek medical advice immediately if experiencing unusual symptoms.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which is crucial to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Pregnant women with body temperatures above 102.2°F (39°C) are at higher risk of heatstroke and complications.

Summary

Summer heat increases the risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy complications through dehydration, heat stress, and exacerbation of maternal health issues. Pregnant women should take precautions to stay cool, hydrated, and avoid heat exposure to protect their health and their baby’s well-being.