Exposure to air pollution in pregnancy has been linked to increased rates of preterm birth, decreased birth weight, hypertensive disorder of pregnancy and gestational diabetes,” president Dr Vijay Roach said:
We would reiterate that these risks are increased when there has been exposure over a long time period.
As our cities and communities are enveloped in smoke as a result of the current bushfires, we would encourage pregnant women to heed advice from authorities, take precautions, limit outdoor activities and try to spend more time indoors. For those unable to avoid prolonged exposure to inhaled air pollution, masks may have a role.