Health Concerns for Obese and Pregnant Women

Overweight, Obesity Increases Risk of Complications During Pregnancy

Aug 30, 2009

Pregnant women who are significantly overweight or obese are more likely to suffer health problems during pregnancy, and are at an increased risk of poor birth outcomes.

Many women who are overweight or obese worry about the additional risks they may face, or that may affect the health of their children, if they become pregnant.

Although it is entirely possible for obese women to have a healthy, pleasant pregnancy, there are some things overweight or obese women should know if pregnancy is a possibility.

Risks for Obese and Pregnant Women

There are many studies that have looked at the connections between maternal obesity or overweight and prenatal or postnatal health. Many of these studies have identified increased risks to both the mother's health and that of the baby.

Some of the less serious risks that obese or significantly overweight pregnant women face include a higher likelihood of experiencing heartburn, headaches, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Although these complications are relatively common and generally not indicative of serious problems, they can make pregnancy considerably less comfortable and pleasant, and often lead to increased health care costs.

In addition, obese pregnant women also face a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia, and potentially requiring a C-section. Both gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia can have serious health repercussions for both the mother and the child if left untreated.

Obese women are also more likely to have stillborn babies or babies with birth defects, such as spina bifida, cardiovascular defects, hydrocephaly, and limb abnormalities. Some of this increase may be due to the fact that many obese women do not receive sufficient nutrients during pregnancy, such as folic acid, that can decrease the risk of birth defects.

Researchers are careful to stress the fact that even with the increased chances of these complications, birth defects are still very rare. In addition, it is not yet clear whether these same increased risks apply to overweight women who are not obese.

Diet and Weight Gain for Obese Pregnant Women

Though it is generally known that significantly overweight or obese women do not need to gain as much weight as normal or underweight pregnant women, few people are aware of how much extra weight is enough.

According to guidelines released by the Institute of Medicine, obese women may need to gain as little as 11 pounds over the course of their pregnancy, and no more than 20 pounds at most. The guidelines also suggest that overweight women should gain between 15 and 25 pounds during pregnancy.

Several research studies have indicated, however, that obese women may not need to gain any weight at all during pregnancy, and may actually have fewer complications if they do not gain weight, or if they lose weight after becoming pregnant.

Because this information is based on scientific research and results, instead of traditional medical opinion, it is possible that recommendations for obese pregnant women may soon advocate no weight gain.

How Obese Women can Have a Healthy Pregnancy

The best way to prevent complications during pregnancy due to high maternal weight is to get to a healthy weight before getting pregnant, through diet and exercise. Doctors working with obese women may recommend diet and exercise regimens if their patients are planning on getting pregnant in the future.

For women who are already pregnant, regular doctor's visits are important to monitor the mother's health and the baby's development. This will allow serious complications to be detected and addressed early on, which can improve the likelihood of positive outcomes.

Healthy eating during pregnancy, where the majority of the mother's calories come from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy dairy, and protein. In addition, very few, if any, additional calories may be necessary for obese pregnant women.

Mild physical activity is also an important way to stay healthy during pregnancy. Provided she has received her doctor's approval, regular walking or swimming may be highly beneficial forms of exercise for obese pregnant women. Such activities can help maintain healthy levels of blood sugar and keep blood pressure at a safe level.

Overall, obese or significantly overweight pregnant women should be aware of their increased risks and should consult with their prenatal care providers as to how best to address their personal risks or complications.

Resources for Obese or Overweight Pregnant Women

The copyright of the article Health Concerns for Obese and Pregnant Women in Prenatal Health is owned by Katherine Brind'Amour. Permission to republish Health Concerns for Obese and Pregnant Women in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.