Dr. Sabine Kapasi
“Delighted to have contributed to this insightful article, shedding light on the challenges faced by pregnant women and new mothers in climate-affected areas when it comes to accessing essential healthcare. The impacts of climate change on maternal health require urgent attention and collaborative efforts. Let’s work together towards finding sustainable solutions and ensuring the well-being of vulnerable communities.”
Pregnant women and new mothers face numerous challenges when it comes to accessing adequate healthcare, particularly in areas affected by climate change. In climate-affected regions, extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense.
“Pregnant women endure increased health risks, including dehydration, malnutrition, and exposure to infectious diseases. Heat stress during pregnancy can lead to premature births and low birth weights, estimates suggest 16% higher risk of preterm birth during heatwave days compared to on non-heatwave days, and low birthweight rate 9% higher during periods with hotter than usual temperature, with babies on average 26 g lighter. Prolonged droughts can compromise access to clean water and sanitation facilities, heightening the risk of maternal and neonatal mortality. Malaria infection has been known to cause severe malaria-induced anaemia during pregnancy and increase the risk of intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, and low birthweight. Dengue transmission is also expected to increase, with approximately 5–6 B people considered at risk by the end of the century, maternal dengue infection is capable of vertical transmission to the foetus, causing foetal or perinatal mortality,” says Dr. Sabine Kapasi, Gynaecologist, IVF Specialist, Healthcare Policy, & Public health leader for global policy.
The constant threat of natural disasters and their aftermath take a toll on the emotional and mental well-being of pregnant women and mothers like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. “Climate change exacerbates existing socioeconomic disparities, leaving pregnant women and mothers in vulnerable situations. Disruptions to agricultural activities and damage to infrastructure make it harder for families to secure food and livelihoods. Limited access to healthcare facilities, transportation, and prenatal care further compounds the difficulties faced by expectant mothers,” adds Dr Kapasi.