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As festive lights brighten up the skies, the air often fills with something far less welcome – pollution. The spike in smog, dust, and noise around Diwali and the winter months can have serious implications for pregnant women and their babies. From affecting fetal growth to triggering preterm labour, the combination of air and noise pollution is a hidden health hazard that often goes unnoticed during pregnancy. Air Pollution And Its Impact On The Mother And Fetus “Diwali causes a lot of air and noise pollution, which can negatively impact both the pregnant woman and the growing fetus,” explains Dr. Pooja Chaudhary, Consultant – Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Laparoscopic Surgery at Motherhood Hospitals, Greater Noida. Pollutants, she says, can cross the blood-brain barrier and affect the baby’s overall growth, increasing the risk of intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weight. Moreover, prolonged exposure can also lead to preterm labour, resulting in early delivery before 37 weeks. “The loud noise of crackers can affect the baby’s hearing and may even increase the risk of heart defects,” she adds. For expectant mothers, the combined stress of air and sound pollution can heighten anxiety levels and aggravate respiratory issues, impacting oxygen supply to the baby. How Pollution Affects Fertility And Reproductive Health The impact of pollution extends beyond pregnancy. It can begin much earlier, even before conception. Dr. Aakriti Batra, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Rohini, Delhi, explains that exposure to high levels of air pollution can “negatively affect ovarian reserve, which refers to the quantity and quality of a woman’s eggs.” According to her, polluted air can disrupt hormonal balance, compromise egg quality, and cause irregular menstrual cycles – all of which reduce fertility potential. In men, pollution is linked to reduced sperm count and motility. “This is largely due to oxidative stress and DNA damage inflicted on sperm cells,” she notes. Research also points to pollution’s role in premature menopause and worsening conditions like endometriosis, as environmental toxins and particulate matter intensify hormonal imbalances and inflammation. Risks During Pregnancy: From Placental Damage To Stillbirths Multiple studies across India have drawn connections between air pollution and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as miscarriages, stillbirths, and low birth weight. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can infiltrate the bloodstream, impair placental function, and reduce oxygen flow to the fetus. Dr. Batra adds that these pollutants can contribute to conditions that endanger both mother and baby. These findings emphasise that air pollution isn’t just an environmental concern. It’s a reproductive and maternal health crisis. How To Protect Yourself Experts advise pregnant women to limit exposure by staying indoors on days with poor air quality, using air purifiers, and wearing N95 masks outdoors. “Stay hydrated, use air purifiers, and avoid firecrackers,” recommends Dr. Chaudhary. Regular prenatal checkups and maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants can also help mitigate the effects of pollution. Air pollution silently seeps into nearly every aspect of health, but its effects on fertility and pregnancy are particularly concerning. As awareness grows, prevention becomes the most powerful tool. A cleaner environment, mindful lifestyle choices, and timely medical guidance can go a long way in ensuring both mother and baby breathe easier.
