Month: December 2015

According to some data, more than one third of women are obese in the United States, more than one half of pregnant women are overweight or obese, and 8% of reproductive-aged women are extremely obese, which puts them at a higher risk of pregnancy complications. The prevalence of obesity in the United States has increased dramatically over the past 25 years. Consequently, it’s greatly important to find out about the possible pregnancy complications, suggestions for weight gain and what you can do to promote a healthy pregnancy.

Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity can do harm to your fertility by inhibiting normal ovulation. Being obese can also affect the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF). IOM (the Institute of Medicine) published revised pregnancy weight gain guidelines that are based on prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) ranges recommended by the World Health Organization.

Overweight and obese women are at greater risks of several pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, infection, overdue pregnancy, miscarriage, etc.

A. Gestational diabetes

Women who are obese during pregnancy are at increased risk of developing gestational diabetes than those women with a normal weight.

B. Preeclampsia

Obese women are more likely to develop a pregnancy complication of preeclampsia, which is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the kidneys.

C. Infection

Obese women during pregnancy are at higher risk of getting UTI (urinary tract infections). However, UTI is curable with suitable treatment like a Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill. Obesity also increases the risk of postpartum infection, whether the baby is delivered vaginally or by C-section.

D. Overdue pregnancy

Obesity can also cause overdue pregnancy, which means pregnancy will continue beyond the expected due date.

E. Labor problems

Labor induction is more common in women who are obese. Obesity can also interfere with the use of certain types of pain medication, such as an epidural block.

F. Miscarriage

Obesity can also increase the risk of pregnancy loss.

What can you do to promote a healthy pregnancy?

You can limit the impact of obesity on your pregnancy and ensure your health and your baby’s health, for example, seek regular prenatal care, schedule a preconception appointment, eat a healthy diet, be physically active and avoid risky substances.

To sum up, obesity during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications for you and your baby. To ease your anxiety, work closely with your health care provider. He or she can help you avoid excessive weight gain, manage any medical conditions, and monitor your baby’s growth and development.