Heatwave risks for women and pregnancy highlighted by health experts

Extreme summer heat poses specific biological and hormonal risks to women, according to Eleonora Guadalupi, head of the West Consultori at Ausl Bologna. Women are considered more vulnerable to heatwaves due to physiological factors that make heat dissipation more difficult.

Pregnancy is identified as a particularly high-risk period. The increased blood volume required to maintain placental flow places additional cardiovascular strain on the mother. Furthermore, heat-induced dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and urinary tract infections.

Research indicates that dehydration in pregnant women can have significant fetal consequences, including a 16% increased risk of preterm birth due to reduced bodily fluids and decreased placental perfusion.