Maternal obesity and its impact on pregnancy

TL;DR

Maternal obesity increases pregnancy complications, and targeted interventions are needed to improve outcomes.

Contribution

This study evaluates the impact of obesity on pregnancy outcomes in a specific Indian population.

Findings

Obesity was linked to higher rates of gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, and anemia.

Intrapartum challenges and higher cesarean delivery rates were observed in obese pregnant women.

Postpartum complications like hemorrhage and infections were more common among obese mothers.

Abstract

Maternal obesity is associated with a significantly increased risk of complications across all stages of pregnancy. Implementing
targeted interventions can help mitigate obesity-related risks and improve overall pregnancy outcomes. Hence, a cross-sectional study was
conducted from September 2022 to September 2023 at a tertiary care hospital of Central India to assess the prevalence of obesity among
pregnant women and to evaluate its impact on pregnancy complications, mode of delivery and fetal outcomes. Data of 80 pregnant women
(BMI >30 kg/m2) with obesity, on demographics, medical history, physical activity and dietary practices were collected.
Relevant investigations, including glucose tolerance tests, ultrasound scans, blood tests, were performed and Maternal and fetal
outcomes were analyzed. Obesity was linked to higher rates of gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, and anemia. Intrapartum
challenges, including prolonged and preterm labor, were more common, with higher cesarean delivery rates. Postpartum morbidity,
particularly hemorrhage, wound infections, and episiotomy dehiscence, was notably higher. These findings highlight the need for
integrated strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of obesity on pregnancy.