Birthing in burning places: intersecting climate crises, maternal health challenges and structured vulnerabilities in Sindh Province of Pakistan

Objective:

We explore and analyze the intersection between rising temperatures, maternal health challenges, and systemic vulnerabilities, with a focus on how the growing climate crisis disproportionately affects pregnant women in Sindh Province of Pakistan.

Background:

Climate change presents substantial health risks worldwide. Likewise, in Sindh Province it significanlty affects pregnant women, who are among the most vulnerable groups. Rising temperatures in association with existing socioeconomic and health disparities are increasing the vulnerabilities of these women.

Methods and materials:

This article is based on a critical analysis of a report on the impact of climate-induced heat on childbirth in Sindh Province, as well as a review of relevant published literature. We also draw on our previously conducted ethnographic research on maternal health in the province.

Results and discussion:

We illustrate how heat stress intersects with other structured social identities and roles to intensify physiological risks during pregnancy, while interacting and influencing socioeconomic contexts, particularly for women involved in household chores and agricultural labor. Their limited capacity to rest, due to ongoing caregiving and economic responsibilities, highlights how structural inequities—such as gender, economic status, and social position—shape their vulnerability. These challenges are further worsened by inadequate health infrastructure and limited policy responses, affecting women differently based on these intersecting identities and roles.

Conclusions:

By framing maternal health within the broader context of climate justice, we call for urgent policy interventions that address both the environmental and social determinants of women’s health.