Multiple earlier studies in the US, Australia and other countries have documented higher preterm birth rates following heat waves. Researchers say extreme heat can reduce placental blood flow, cause dehydration and trigger inflammatory responses that increase the risk of early labour. Extreme heat has also been associated with the premature rupture of membranes. “But the increased risk of preterm births from exposure to cold temperatures was unexpected,” Dutta said. Winters in the Indo-Gangetic plains are relatively mild and similar strong links between preterm birth and extreme cold have not consistently emerged from much colder regions such as northern Europe or Siberia.

Source: The Telegraph March 01, 2026 23:16 UTC