Evaluating the Impact of Heat Stress on Placental Function: A Systematic Review

Jazmin D. Ramirez (), Isabel Maldonado, Katharine J. Mach, Jonell Potter, Raymond R. Balise and Hudson Santos
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Jazmin D. Ramirez: School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
Isabel Maldonado: School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA
Katharine J. Mach: Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33149, USA
Jonell Potter: Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
Raymond R. Balise: Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
Hudson Santos: School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL 33146, USA

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 8, 1-24

Abstract: Ambient heat stress poses a significant threat to public health, with rising temperatures exacerbating the risks associated with pregnancy. This systematic review examined the associations between heat stress exposure and placental function, synthesizing methodologies from the existing literature to inform future research approaches. Analyzing 24 articles, it explores various study designs, temperature exposure parameters, pregnancy windows, and placental outcome variables. Findings across human and animal studies reveal diverse effects on placental weight, efficiency, blood flow, anatomy, gene expression, and steroid levels under heat stress conditions. While animal studies primarily utilize randomized controlled trials, human research relies on observational methodologies due to ethical constraints. Both demonstrate alterations in placental morphology and function, underscoring the importance of understanding these changes for maternal and fetal health. The review underscores the urgent need for further research, particularly in human populations, to elucidate mechanisms and develop interventions mitigating heat stress’s adverse effects on placental health. Ultimately, this synthesis contributes to understanding the complex interplay between environmental factors and pregnancy outcomes, informing strategies for maternal and fetal well-being amidst climate change challenges.

Keywords: climate; placenta; childbirth; pregnancy; methods (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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