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.