Why is Air Pollution Dangerous for Pregnant Women? Here's the Explanation

Illustration of a pregnant woman (photo: Pixabay)

YOGYAKARTA - Pregnant women are among the most vulnerable groups of people to get sick due to air pollution, whether it comes from motor vehicle exhaust gases, dust, to chemical gases and vapors. So, why is air pollution dangerous for pregnant women?

This article will discuss how air pollution can affect pregnancy, complete with the impact it has. Let's see the explanation!

Why is Air Pollution Dangerous for Pregnant Women?

During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes many changes. Pregnant women need more oxygen to support fetal growth. As a result, the respiratory system works more actively and the volume of air inhaled also increases.

On the other hand, the mother's and fetus' body systems are connected through the placenta and umbilical cord, forming a bridge for the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste substances.

Until then, if pregnant women breathe air containing pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide, the harmful substances can reach the placenta.

This exposure can trigger oxidative stress, which is a condition of increased free radicals in the body that have the potential to damage healthy cells. In the long term, this can interfere with the development of the baby and increase the risk of various health problems, both for the mother and the baby, quoted from the Max Healthcare website.

What is the Impact of Air Pollution on Pregnant Women?

Long-term exposure to air pollution can increase various pregnancy risks, including:

Premature Birth

Air pollution is closely related to premature birth (before 37 weeks). Particles such as PM2.5 can trigger inflammation and hormonal imbalances that cause premature contractions.

Risk of Stillbirth

Long-term exposure to heavy pollution can increase the risk of stillbirth. Carbon monoxide can interfere with the oxygen supply, while fine particles damage the placental tissue.

Low Birth Weight

Pollution can inhibit the growth of babies in the womb so that babies are born with low body weight.

Fetal Growth Retarded

This condition occurs when babies develop slower than they should due to reduced blood flow and nutrients from the placenta.

Gestational Diabetes

Air pollution is also linked to an increased risk of diabetes during pregnancy due to insulin regulation disorders.

How to Reduce the Risk of Exposure to Air Pollution During Pregnancy?

To protect the mother and fetus, some steps that can be taken include:

Avoiding outdoor activities when pollution is high Wearing a mask when outside Using an air purifier in the house Eating nutritious food to increase immunity Routine pregnancy check-ups with a doctor

These simple tips can help reduce the adverse effects of air pollution.

This is the explanation of why air pollution is dangerous for pregnant women and its effects. To get other interesting news updates, visit the VOI.id page.