Delhi Air Pollution: As the air quality in the National Capital continues to deteriorate, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed GRAP Stage 3 in Delhi NCR from 8am today.
With a thick layer of smog enveloping the region, Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘severe’ category for the third consecutive day on Friday. Good air quality is vital for overall health. According to Dr. Archana Dhawan Bajaj, Gynaecologist, Obstetrician and IVF Expert, Nurture IVF Clinic, New Delhi, any couples aspire of having a healthy baby, but concerns such as air pollution might make this impossible.
“Air pollution is produced by numerous polluting discharges from the environment. It is caused by a wide range of contaminants. Other pollutants include sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM10). These pollutants are released from a variety of sources, including industry, cars, construction, wildfires, and more,” Dr. Bajaj told Financial Express.com.
According to research at Harvard School of Public health, women who live near high-pollution roads had a reduced probability of having a healthy pregnancy. Another study discovered that high levels of air pollution in metropolitan areas have a considerable influence on fertility. Exposure to PM2.5 diminishes ovarian reserve and lowers pregnancy rates.
More women are now experiencing hormonal problems that influence their reproductive hormones, Dr. Bajaj revealed.
A hazardous environment dramatically alters hormone levels, menstrual periods, and reproductive function. According to one study, particulate matter pollution has serious consequences for a fetus resulting in negative outcomes.
High levels of PM2.5 and PM10 have been shown to have a negative impact on AMH levels. It also impacts female Antral Follicle Count (AFC), which has a significant impact on ovarian reserve and fertility. It causes an increase in miscarriage rates and the risk of stillbirth.
How pregnancy is affected by air pollution?
Pollution plays a significant role in maternal and fetal health, impacting pregnancy outcomes and long-term well-being. Therefore, it is essential to control exposure to polluted air during pregnancy, Dr. Bajaj revealed.
“While it may not be completely possible to avoid it, however, one needs to take precautions such as staying indoors on high pollution days, using air purifiers, and avoiding high-traffic areas can help reduce risks and protect both mother and baby. Prioritizing clean air and good health practices is crucial for a safe and healthy pregnancy,” she told Financial Express.com.
‘Increased risk of miscarriage and pregnancy complications’
Dr. Bajaj also revealed that air pollution is responsible for affecting lung development by causing premature birth, low birth weight or impairing the development of the immune system.
“The health consequences of this exposure are particularly significant since air pollution during the perinatal period might interfere with organ development and organogenesis. Furthermore, silent miscarriage is more likely in pregnant women who have been exposed to high amounts of pollution in the first trimester, according to recent research. A “silent miscarriage” happens when a fetus fails to develop or dies but the placenta and embryonic tissue survive,” she told Financial Express.com.