Extreme cold + pollution = Higher risk of premature delivery
Doctors warn that harsh winter temperatures combined with rising pollution levels can increase the chances of preterm birth (delivery before 37 weeks). Both these factors put stress on the mother’s body and affect the developing baby.
Below is the full explanation:
1. How extreme cold affects pregnancy
● Constricts blood vessels:
When it’s very cold, blood vessels tighten. This can reduce blood flow to the placenta, affecting the baby’s oxygen and nutrient supply.
● Increases blood pressure:
Cold weather can cause a rise in blood pressure. High blood pressure during pregnancy (gestational hypertension or pre-eclampsia) is a major cause of early delivery.
● Higher risk of infections:
Winter increases viral infections like flu, cold, RSV. Fevers and infections can trigger contractions or weaken the amniotic sac.
● Stress on the immune system:
Pregnant women already have a sensitive immune system. Extreme cold puts additional strain on the body, making complications more likely.
2. How pollution increases the risk
Pollution, especially PM2.5 and PM10, has a direct link to premature birth.
● Pollutants enter the bloodstream
Toxic particles inhaled by the mother can travel through the bloodstream and reach the placenta.
● Placental inflammation
Pollution causes inflammation, which may trigger early contractions.
● Reduced oxygen supply
Polluted air decreases oxygen levels, which can affect fetal growth and force an early delivery.
● Hormonal imbalance
Some pollutants act like endocrine disruptors, disturbing hormones needed for a full-term pregnancy.
3. Combined effect: Even stronger risk
Cold air traps pollutants near the ground, creating a “toxic blanket.”
So winter = pollution becomes worse → double impact on pregnancy.
4. What doctors advise
Here are the precautions most doctors recommend:
✔ Stay warm
- Wear layers, cover head, ears, feet.
- Avoid sudden exposure to cold air.
✔ Avoid polluted areas
- Limit outdoor time during early mornings and late evenings.
- Avoid heavy-traffic roads.
✔ Use N95 mask while going out
- Normal masks do NOT block fine particles.
✔ Keep indoor air clean
- Use an air purifier if possible.
- Ventilate rooms during low-pollution hours.
✔ Stay hydrated
- Helps maintain blood flow to the placenta.
✔ Nutrition focus
- Vitamin C, vitamin D, omega-3, and iron strengthen immunity and fetal development.
✔ Regular prenatal checkups
- Doctors can detect early warning signs like:
- high BP
- low amniotic fluid
- fetal growth issues
✔ Get recommended vaccinations
- Especially flu shot (if doctor approves).
5. Warning signs you should never ignore
If a pregnant woman notices these, she should contact her doctor immediately:
- Lower abdominal pain or cramps
- Back pain
- Leakage of fluid
- Bleeding or spotting
- Decreased fetal movement
- High fever
- Sudden swelling or headache
