New Delhi, October 6, 2026: Extreme heat is increasingly threatening the health of pregnant women and newborns, according to a new global survey involving 1,000 maternal-health professionals across five countries, including 200 from India. The findings show that heat-related complications are becoming more common while healthcare systems remain underprepared to deal with the growing risks.
73% Report Rise in Pregnancy Complications
The survey found that 73% of maternal-health professionals had seen an increase in heat-related cases or complications affecting pregnant women over the past five years.
At the same time, 76% reported an increase in problems affecting foetal or newborn health.
Nearly All Health Workers Have Seen Heat-Related Harm
Almost every respondent said they had personally treated patients affected by extreme heat.
Around 98% had cared for a pregnant woman whose health they believed was negatively affected by extreme temperatures, while 99% had treated a baby affected by heat.
200 Indian Maternal-Health Professionals Included
The survey covered healthcare workers in India, Australia, Brazil, the United Kingdom and Zimbabwe.
India accounted for 200 respondents, including obstetricians, gynaecologists, doctors, nurses, midwives and other professionals involved in maternal and newborn care.
Heat Linked to Miscarriage and Stillbirth Risks
Separate research from India cited alongside the survey has linked extreme heat exposure with higher risks of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, low birth weight and maternal complications.
Research also suggests that every 1°C rise in temperature may increase the odds of preterm birth by around 5%.
Heatwaves Can Disrupt Access to Care
Extreme temperatures are not only creating direct health risks but also making it harder for pregnant women to reach hospitals and clinics.
Healthcare professionals reported more emergency cases and difficulties with travel and access to medical facilities during periods of severe heat.
Health Systems Still Underprepared
The survey revealed a major preparedness gap.
Around 92% of respondents said they need more training and resources, while 55% called for clearer clinical guidance on how to care for pregnant women and newborns during extreme heat.
Climate Change Raising Maternal-Health Concerns
About 81% of health professionals surveyed said they were concerned that climate change would further increase these risks.
The findings are strengthening calls for maternal health to become a more prominent part of climate adaptation and public-health planning.
Calls for Heat-Resilient Healthcare
Experts are urging governments and health agencies to improve cooling facilities, provide better training to frontline workers and include pregnant women and newborns in national heat-action plans.
The findings come ahead of COP31 and add to growing evidence that extreme heat is becoming a serious public-health challenge, not just an environmental issue.
Source – Wellcome, The Indian Express
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