Effect of pollution on pregnancy

Low Birth Weight

Polluted air results in low birth weight of babies.

During the 2008 Olympics held in China, the most populated country, and to maintain the well-being two months of lower emission was mandated. These restrictions improved air quality and interestingly in Beijing, ladies in the 8th month around this time delivered 0.8 ounces heavier babies. 

Preterm Birth

Exposure to PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) during pregnancy is been linked to premature births. 

3 million babies are born prematurely, with other many factors, PAH is also one of the reasons for premature deliveries. 18% of all annual preterm births have been linked with exposure to particulate matter pollution. 

should try to avoid it.

Autism

As per a study conducted by the Harvard School of Public health, Women exposed to high particulate matter pollution during their third trimester are twice likely to deliver babies with Autism.

Asthma

Exposure of mother to pollutants increases the chances of the baby developing asthma in later life as particulate matter breaches the placenta and lodges deep into the lungs.

ADHD and OCD

As per Columbia university’s observation, exposure to air pollution during pregnancy may develop behavioral issues in babies like ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity) and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorders)

What can we do?

Air is an important element and as an individual, we have less control over. Yet few safety measures can be followed by the pregnant woman to protect herself and her unborn child.

1. Protect your air

Avoid cigarette smokes whether it is active or passive smoking 

Avoid freshly painted rooms 

Use chimneys or exhaust fan whenever you cook

Keep an eye on hair sprays or garbage burning as it adds contaminants to household air.

2. Get Air purifying plants 

Plants have the power to naturally filter air. Certain plants remove volatile organic compounds and replace carbon monoxide with fresh and clean oxygen. 

Plants like money plants, rubber plants, spider plants, snake plants, aloe vera, peace lily, Chinese evergreen, etc. have the capacity to purify the air. Keep one plant for every 100 sq feet for cleaner air. 

3. Stay inside

whenever the forecast says outdoor pollution is high try not to expose yourselves to outdoor as the skin absorbs 60-80% of whatever encounters it.

4. Use of masks

keep the habit of checking AQI (air quality index) in and around your place and use masks. Masks like N99, N95, and N100 have the capacity to filter particulate matter 2.5 which mainly affects pregnancy.

5. Get Air Purifier

If you happen to live in cities like Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, or any other highly polluted city, go for air purifiers. 

Air purifier purifies air by removing smoke and allergens from the air helping you and your baby to grow in a healthier environment. 

Invest in a certified HEPA (high-efficiency particulate absorber) air filter which has a 100% efficiency rate.

6. If circumstances allow, try to move to a healthier and greener space during your pregnancy for at least the first and last couple of months.

However bad the conditions are, you need to fight and find better ways. Nature and natural are the safest and healthiest options. Make your journey a better one seeking the asylum of Nature.