Pregnant women warned to 'stay indoors' during heatwave in Karachi

As a heatwave grips Karachi, health experts have advised pregnant women to stay indoors to avoid complications in their pregnancy.

The warning came after a recent study in the United States revealed that extreme heat can cause miscarriage, preterm births, and other diseases.

The study found that extreme heat can increase the risk of miscarriage, and "pregnant women are advised to be careful during hot weather to avoid complications in pregnancy".

According to Dr Sajatha Reddy, one of the authors of the study, extremely hot temperatures can increase the risk of miscarriage.

"Pregnant women should take precautions to keep their bodies cool during the summer season," she said.

Another study, conducted in Georgia, found that extremely hot temperatures lasting four or more days increased the incidence of preterm births, particularly those less than 37 weeks.

Health experts have advised pregnant women in Karachi to avoid wearing fitted clothes while going out and instead choose loose and comfortable clothing to protect themselves and their unborn children.

They should also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid going out in the sun during the day when temperatures are at their highest, the medical analysts added.

"By taking these precautions, pregnant women can reduce the risk of miscarriage and preterm births, and ensure a healthy pregnancy."

Karachi has been in the grip of hot weather for a week with over 30 people succumbing to the heatwave.