A number of bad effects will be felt by pregnant women and their fetuses if they are exposed to air pollution too often. One of the bad effects of air pollution on pregnancy is premature delivery. Several studies have been conducted to determine the impact of air pollution on pregnancy. The air pollution studied is vehicle fumes which contain pollutants in the form of particles and toxic gases.
The particles in question are fine particulates with a diameter of 2.5 micro or smaller. Because of their very small size, these particles can infiltrate deep into the lungs and enter the placenta via the bloodstream. The toxic gases in question are carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide.
Impact of Exposure to Air Pollution on Pregnant Women and Fetus
The growth and development and health of the fetus is strongly influenced by the health of the mother and various environmental exposures that the fetus receives through the mother's body, including toxic substances from air pollution. Some of the bad effects of exposure to air pollution on pregnancy are:
1. Premature birth
According to a study conducted by The Stockholm Environment Institute, nearly 3 million babies are born prematurely every year due to exposure to air pollution. That means 18 percent of all premature births are caused by air pollution. Although premature birth can occur for various reasons, air pollution is one of the causes that can be avoided to reduce your risk of experiencing it.
Read Too : Causes of Premature Birth You Need to Know
2. Low baby weight
A study revealed that pregnant women who are often exposed to air pollution are also at risk of giving birth to babies weighing less than 2.5 kg.
3. Autism
Research at Harvard University revealed that pregnant women who are exposed to excessive air pollution, especially during the last trimester of pregnancy, are 2 times more likely to give birth to babies with autism.
4. Asthma complications
Continuous exposure to air pollution can trigger asthma. In pregnant women, this condition can be very dangerous, because asthma can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia. It does not stop there, if the asthma recurs and is not treated immediately, the safety of the fetus can be threatened due to lack of oxygen.
Read Too : The Dangers of Smoking During Pregnancy
In order to avoid the various bad effects of air pollution on pregnancy, you need to start paying attention to the air conditions in the environment around where you live. If you live in a polluted area, it's best to limit outdoor activities. If you have to go outside, wear a mask and try to choose a time in the morning or after sunset. This is because sunlight during the day can increase ozone levels which will trap pollutants in the air.
To maintain air quality in the house, you can install an air filter in the room and close all windows so that air pollution does not enter the house. In addition, remind people who live with you not to smoke in the house. It is no less important is to regularly check your pregnancy to the doctor to monitor the health condition of the fetus.
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