Heatwaves hit women harder: Why they are more vulnerable

Extreme heat poses a greater challenge to women's bodies than men's, with experts warning that hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, menopause, and differences in body temperature regulation heighten the risk of heat stress. Dr. Nigat Arif, a general practitioner specializing in women's health, told the BBC that extreme heat tests women's cardiovascular systems more severely than men's.

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Although extreme heat can affect anyone, it represents a kind of endurance test for women's cardiovascular systems and affects them more strongly than men.

Biologically, women face increased risk due to natural hormone level variations and distinct physiological responses to heat. Research indicates women produce less sweat and begin sweating at higher body temperatures, reducing their bodies' efficiency in releasing excess heat. Women also tend to have a higher body temperature and a greater percentage of body fat, which acts as an additional insulating layer. These factors, combined with hormonal changes affecting the brain's temperature regulation centers during the menstrual cycle, perimenopause, menopause, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, place greater strain on the cardiovascular system.

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Biologically, the increased risk for women boils down to two things: natural fluctuations in hormone levels and the way the body reacts to heat, which differs from men's.

Beyond biology, social and economic factors contribute to women's vulnerability. Dr. Catriona Pinjoo-Gomes, an academic advisor for public health, notes that women's roles in lower-paid jobs or as caregivers can impact their ability to protect themselves during heatwaves. Additionally, women's longer average life expectancy means they are more frequently exposed to health risks in older age. Older individuals, particularly those with dementia, may have a reduced ability to recognize thirst, and conditions requiring diuretic medication further increase their risk of heat stress.

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Social and economic circumstances, such as women often being less well-paid or more often taking on caregiver roles, can further affect their ability to protect themselves during heatwaves.

The menstrual cycle itself influences heat sensitivity. Dr. Arif explains that progesterone levels rise in the second half of the cycle, potentially increasing body temperature and discomfort. At the onset of menstruation, estrogen levels drop, requiring the heart to work harder to cool the body. One individual reported experiencing normal bleeding but feeling significantly more tired and dizzy during a heatwave.

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I had normal bleeding, but I noticed I was much more tired, dizzy...