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Maternal hypothermia from environmental exposure in the third trimester
Margot Rosenthal1, Vanessa Poliquin1, Adelicia Yu1
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
International Journal of Circumpolar Health
|January 5, 2020
Summary
Severe hypothermia in a pregnant patient can affect fetal well-being. Conservative management prioritizing maternal temperature restoration led to a healthy infant, demonstrating effective treatment for accidental hypothermia during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Emergency Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Accidental hypothermia in pregnancy is a rare but serious condition.
- Exposure to extreme cold (-30.0°C) can lead to significant maternal core temperature drop (29.8°C).
- Hypothermia poses risks to both maternal and fetal well-being, including fetal bradycardia.
Observation:
- A 32-week primigravida experienced severe hypothermia (core temperature 29.8°C) after prolonged exposure to -30°C.
- Associated fetal bradycardia was noted.
- Conservative management included passive rewarming with warm air blankets and warmed IV fluids.
Findings:
- Maternal normothermia was achieved through conservative rewarming.
- Fetal heart rate normalized with the restoration of maternal core temperature.
- Serial fetal assessments confirmed appropriate growth and normal Doppler studies.
Implications:
- Conservative management of maternal hypothermia can lead to favorable maternal and fetal outcomes.
- Prioritizing maternal well-being is key in managing environmental emergencies during pregnancy.
- This case supports a cautious approach to rewarming pregnant individuals exposed to extreme cold.
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