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High temperatures increase the risk of stillbirth and preterm labor
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Scientists from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) have conducted a world-first study that has found a link between rising temperatures and the incidence of stillbirths and premature births.
Professor Adrian Barnett, from QUT's Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), led the study which analysed the causes of preterm births in Brisbane over a four-year period from 2005.
Barnett said there were a total of 101,870 births registered during the entire period, of which 653 (0.6%) were stillbirths.
"We found that higher temperatures increased the risk of stillbirth, especially in early pregnancy up to 28 weeks," he said.
After analysing the data, the scientists found that at 15°C there were 353 stillbirths per 100,000 pregnancies, compared with 610 stillbirths per 100,000 pregnancies at 23°C.
Rising temperatures also shorten the length of pregnancy, leading to an increase in the birth of premature babies, who often have serious long-term health problems such as cerebral palsy, vision and hearing impairment.
During the study, the scientists recorded weekly readings of temperature, humidity and air pollution levels and their impact on the course of pregnancy.
The results showed that the lowest risks of stillbirth and preterm birth were in the coolest weeks, and the highest in the hottest weeks. Scientists attribute these results to the fact that women often use air conditioners to stay comfortable during hot periods.
Professor Barnett said the research had important public health implications in relation to global warming.
"Pregnant women should protect themselves from overheating to reduce the chance of premature birth or stillbirth," he said.
It is known that women during pregnancy should avoid taking hot baths and jacuzzis, as this can lead to miscarriage due to dehydration caused by high temperature and sweating.
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