Rising rates of preterm births due to pollution

The health of pregnant women and newborns is also being affected

Chandigarh (Haryana) – Air pollution in Haryana is now beginning to show its adverse effects on pregnant women and newborn babies. A rise in preterm births has been observed, linked directly to pollution. This conclusion was presented by Dr Pushpa Dahiya, Head of the Gynaecology Department in Rohtak. According to her, a total of 13,500 deliveries took place there in the past year, of which 18% — approximately 2,430 — were premature.

Dr Pushpa believes that pollution is a major factor behind this trend. Chemical particles mixed in the air enter the body through respiration and reach the foetus through the bloodstream. Due to polluted air, cases of cough, cold and asthma have increased. This
situation is hazardous for pregnant women, as persistent coughing also affects the foetus. All these factors raise the risk of preterm delivery. In addition, high blood pressure, diabetes, malaria and dengue further increase the chances of premature births.

According to Dr Dahiya, any birth before 36 weeks is considered a preterm delivery. Some babies are born before 28 weeks, some between 28 and 32 weeks and others before 37 weeks. Babies born between 34 and 36 weeks face relatively fewer complications. The earlier the birth, the higher the risks.

How to take care ?

Dr Dahiya states that regular check-ups and adherence to prescribed medication can reduce the chances of preterm delivery. Eating green vegetables, milk and buttermilk helps improve nutritional deficiencies.

Problems faced by premature babies

Premature babies are unable to regulate their body temperature and are more vulnerable to cold, fluctuations in blood sugar, jaundice and infections. They require specialised care. Due to weak physical development, the risk of impaired vision also increases. Their bodies catch infections more easily, and without proper care during infancy, their IQ may be lower.

Why is pollution dangerous for pregnant women ?

Pollution increases the risk of infections in women. As health deteriorates, food intake decreases and immunity weakens. Levels of vitamins and proteins in the body fall, depriving the foetus of essential nutrients. According to Dr Surendra Malik from the Gynaecology Department at Civil Hospital, pollution affects the placenta forming in the uterus, making it unable to supply adequate oxygen to the foetus.