Analysis of heat exposure during pregnancy and severe maternal morbidity

This study examines associations between long- and short-term maternal heat exposure and severe maternal morbidity (SMM). The rate of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) is continuously increasing in the US. Evidence regarding the associations of climate-related exposure, such as environmental heat, with SMM is lacking.

In this retrospective cohort study, long- and short-term heat exposure during pregnancy was associated with higher risk of SMM. These results might have important implications for SMM prevention, particularly in a changing climate.