The National Bureau of Economic Research published a study a few weeks ago, and it examined the effects of temperature shocks, more specifically days with an average temperature above 89 degrees Fahrenheit, on birth rates in America.
Researchers discovered each additional day where temperatures rose above 80 degrees caused a decline in the birth rate approximately nine months later. This suggests conception can be negatively affected by hot days.
The researchers also found birth rates rebound in the following months, but only to a certain extent. This suggests conception rates start to rise in the cooler months.
Alan Barreca, the lead author of the study, said he wouldn’t say this meant the end of human civilization, but he did say he would suggest that it will be adding to the cost of climate change.
On a year-to-year basis, there would be around 100,000 fewer births if the number of hot days increase from 30 to 90.
Heat can hurt sperm function, and it can reduce testosterone levels and interfere with women’s menstrual cycles. Researchers also noted other factors that contribute to birth rates, such as improved access to birth control.
