Warning Signs: Heat Threatens Expecting Mothers

The Challenges of Pregnancy During Extreme Heat

As the summer sun beats down on Missouri, expectant mothers are facing a unique set of challenges. High temperatures can pose serious risks to both the mother and the developing baby. Megan Eagleburger Ruble, who is 35 weeks pregnant, continues to manage her family farm despite the heat. She performs barn chores with her parents, taking care of horses and goats. Despite the sweltering conditions, she hasn’t slowed down.

The day’s biggest task involves raking and baling hay during a heat dome. While this weather is ideal for hay production, it's not ideal for someone carrying a child. Dr. Caitlin Linscheid, an OBGYN at the University of Kansas Health System, explains that high temperatures add extra stress on the body, especially for pregnant women.

“When you're pregnant, your body has to regulate both your temperature and your baby's,” Dr. Linscheid said. “This makes the demands much higher.”

Dr. Linscheid, who also serves as Eagleburger Ruble’s doctor, worked with her to develop a plan to stay safe while managing daily tasks. Eagleburger Ruble emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated and protecting herself from the sun. She also listens to her body, noting that her baby seems to be moving normally.

While these strategies are common for pregnant women, the frequency and duration of extreme heat events are becoming a growing concern. A recent study by Climate Central found that rising temperatures linked to climate change are increasing the risk of preterm births. Utah saw the most significant increase in heat-risk days, with 21 additional days over five years. Missouri and Kansas added 10 and 7 days respectively.

For Dr. Linscheid, preterm labor is a major concern. She explains that dehydration can lead to uterine contractions, which may trigger early labor. According to her, there is a 16% increase in preterm deliveries associated with higher outdoor temperatures.

Heat can also increase the risk of pregnancy loss in the early stages. That’s why Dr. Linscheid advises her patients to pay attention to their bodies and take action if they experience symptoms of heat-related illness.

“If you start to feel really hot, you get slower; you start to sweat heavily,” she said. “Those are signals that you should go inside or find a cool place. If you’re pregnant and you’re hot and start to feel nauseous, confused, or get a severe headache, or stop sweating, those are signs of an emergency and you need to seek medical attention immediately.”

To avoid such situations, Dr. Linscheid recommends several preventative measures. These include drinking 10 ounces of water every hour, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and using sunscreen. She encourages pregnant women to enjoy the outdoors but to do so safely.

“By all means, go outside and enjoy our city, just make sure you’re doing it in a way that keeps you and your baby safe,” she said.