The Weather Report That Could Induce Labour
Its Gettin’ Hot In Here…
Pregnant in summer? It may pay to take note of the weather forecast, Mama!
Canadian researchers have found a surprising link between warmer weather and early delivery.
Researchers looked at the records of 319 live births in relation to temperature and found that women exposed to temperatures of above 32 degrees C for more than 4 days in a row had a 27% greater risk of an early term delivery compared to those living in more moderate temperatures.
Research further suggests that women exposed to extreme heat were more likely to deliver their babies at 37 or 38 weeks as opposed to 40 weeks.
“Pregnancy becomes more physically challenging as you get closer to term” says Natalie Auger, MD, MSc, researcher at the University Montreal’s department of social and preventative medicine.
Consider heat as an added stressor on an already challenged and stressed body.
Studies suggest that heat-induced stress increases uterine contractivity, during a period of pregnancy when thermoregulation seems less effective.
Physical stresses like heat – have a greater impact at 37 or 38 weeks gestation than earlier on in your pregnancy.
It is also believed that dehydration also reduces blood supply to the uterus which increases the release of pituitary hormones which induce labour.
While 37 weeks might seem close enough, studies show children born at 37 or 38 weeks suffer with more respiratory problems compared to children born at term.
So, our advice for all those mamas to be riding the Aussie heat waves across the country this summer… Stay cool and hydrated! You should never allow your body to get to the point where you feel thirsty, which is a sign of dehydration.
Our MaterniTea Herbal Pregnancy Tea blends including our famous birth preparation Raspberry Leaf blend CapaciTea, are perfect chilled during the hot summer weather and provide your body and your baby with import nutrients to support your pregnancy.
For more information on MaterniTea fertility, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Tea blends visit the website www.maternitea.com
