As climate change drives longer and more intense heatwaves, rural health research is increasingly focused on how extreme heat affects people at key life stages. A recent journal article co-authored by UCRH researcher Associate Professor Veronica Matthews shines a light on what hot weather means for pregnancy, drawing together lived experiences from around the world.
The paper, Hot weather, maternal health, and pregnancy experiences, impacts and responses: A systematic review of global qualitative research, has been published in Women and Birth. It brings together qualitative studies that explore how pregnant people experience extreme heat, how it affects their health, and the strategies they use to cope.
The review found that extreme heat has a clear and often serious impact on maternal health. Reported effects included physical discomfort, fatigue and stress, with flow on effects for daily life and wellbeing during pregnancy. While some studies described ways pregnant people adapted to heat, such as changing daily routines or seeking cooler spaces, the overall picture showed limited options, especially in low resource settings.
Importantly, the research highlights that responses to heat are shaped by more than temperature alone. Environmental conditions, cultural expectations and socio economic factors all play a role in how heat is experienced and managed during pregnancy. Many of the studies included were based in African contexts, pointing to gaps in evidence from other regions, including Australia.
The findings underline the need for practical, culturally appropriate public health responses. As temperatures rise, health practitioners and communities need better information and support to reduce risks during pregnancy.
The authors call for greater awareness and education, alongside future research that centres the voices and lived experiences of pregnant people. Understanding these experiences is key to developing solutions that work in real world settings and protect maternal health in a warming climate.
