IMPACT OF MATERNAL OBESITY ON MATERNAL AND FOETAL OUTCOME

Abstract

Background: Obesity has become a silent epidemic and its prevalence is increasing in pregnant women also. This study aims to highlight the impact of maternal obesity on the foetal and maternal outcome.

Materials and methods: The study was conducted on 160 pregnant women in their first trimester with viable singleton pregnancy. The obese group (BMI > 25) of 80 women, were compared for foeto-maternal outcome, with parity matched 80 women in non-obese group (BMI < 25).

Results: There was increased incidence of antepartum, intrapartum and foetal complications in obese group as compared to non-obese group. Preeclampsia was seen in 42.1% vs 14.1%, GDM in 14.5% vs 10.3%, induction of labour in 31.9% vs 13.3%, in obese as compared to non-obese respectively. Lower segment caesarean section (37.5% vs 13.8%), macrosomia (22.4% vs 1.3%), shoulder dystocia (18.4% vs 3.8%), birth asphyxia (11.8% vs 5.1%) and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission (12.7% vs 6.6%) were more common in obese as compared to non-obese.

Conclusion: Maternal obesity is a risk factor for many antepartum, intrapartum, postpartum and foetal complications. All attempts should be made to prevent obesity in women of childbearing age and to encourage weight loss before pregnancy.

Keywords: Maternal Obesity; BMI; Foeto-maternal outcome