Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Heat spells linked to pregnancy problems in Germany
By Raab A & Schmitz D.·2026·Faculty of Health, Germany·View original on Europe PMC →
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Original publication title: Heat spells and birth and peripartum pregnancy complications in Germany: a scoping review.
Plain-English summary
This review looked at how heat exposure might affect pregnancy complications in Germany, especially as climate change raises temperatures. The researchers found only four relevant studies, and two of them suggested that high heat could lead to preterm births at different stages of pregnancy. One study didn’t find a clear link to low birth weight, but another did find a strong connection between high temperatures and swelling during pregnancy. Overall, while the studies varied in their methods and results, they hint that heat exposure could be harmful to pregnant individuals in Germany, particularly regarding preterm birth. More research is needed to confirm these findings and help create better public health strategies for pregnant people facing rising temperatures.
Abstract
<h4>Purpose</h4>Climate change is increasing global temperatures, with mid-latitude regions experiencing significant warming. Pregnant individuals are particularly vulnerable to heat exposure, which has been linked to adverse outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. However, research in temperate regions like Germany is scarce. This scoping review examines studies on the association between heat exposure and pregnancy complications in Germany.<h4>Methods</h4>Following the JBI methodology for scoping reviews, a systematic literature search was conducted in eight databases, including PubMed and Scopus. Studies analyzing pregnancy complications in relation to heat events in Germany were included. Studies without systematic temperature data collection or focusing on long-term child development after birth were excluded.<h4>Results</h4>Only four studies met the inclusion criteria. Two reported significant associations between heat exposure and preterm birth, though at different pregnancy stages. One study on low birth weight found no clear correlation, while another identified a strong link between high temperatures and pregnancy-related edema. Differences in exposure definitions and outcome measures limited comparability.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Despite the heterogeneity in study designs and findings, the results from the small number of studies could indicate that heat exposure may contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes in Germany, particularly preterm birth. To strengthen the evidence base, future research should focus on standardizing exposure definitions and employing robust methodologies. These findings underscore the need for public health strategies to mitigate the risks associated with rising temperatures for pregnant individuals.
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Search related cases →Original publication on Europe PMC: https://europepmc.org/article/MED/41511577