Obesity during pregnancy increases the likelihood of complications for both the mother and the baby.
Doctors advise that maintaining a healthy body weight before and during pregnancy helps keep complications like gestational diabetes at bay.
Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby.
(Photo: Getty Images)He added that obesity during pregnancy also ups the chances of other serious conditions such as preeclampsia (high blood pressure) and gestational hypertension.
As per experts, obese women might experience slower labour progression, leading to a higher likelihood of labour induction or caesarean delivery.
Obesity during pregnancy increases the likelihood of complications for both the mother and the baby.
Doctors advise that maintaining a healthy body weight before and during pregnancy helps keep complications like gestational diabetes at bay.
Preconception counselling and appropriate prenatal care can help manage the risks that come with obesity.
Recently, a 33-year-old woman who weighed 160 kg and had a history of hypothyroidism gave birth to a healthy baby after 14 years of marriage. For several years, the woman failed to conceive since she had a history of hypothyroidism since childhood, irregular periods and obesity.
advertisement
Doctors have highlighted how obesity can be a high-risk factor during pregnancy.
"First off, let's talk about gestational diabetes. This type of diabetes occurs during pregnancy and can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. Obesity plays a significant role here because it can make the body more resistant to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. With this resistance, the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes increases," said Dr Gandhali Deorukhkar, Gynaecologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. (Photo: Getty Images)
He added that obesity during pregnancy also ups the chances of other serious conditions such as preeclampsia (high blood pressure) and gestational hypertension.
These conditions not only threaten the well-being of the mother but can also impact the growth and development of the baby.
Then there's venous thromboembolism (VTE), a condition where blood clots form in the veins.
"This risk is heightened in obese pregnant women. It causes decreased mobility and other health issues that develop blood clots, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly," said Dr Deorukhkar.
Besides this, obesity can complicate the labour process in various ways.
As per experts, obese women might experience slower labour progression, leading to a higher likelihood of labour induction or caesarean delivery. Obese women can also have thromboembolism (VTE), a condition where blood clots form in the veins. (Photo: Getty Images)
"Caesarean deliveries, in particular, carry additional risks for obese mothers, including complications related to anaesthesia," added Dr Deorukhkar.
The risks don't end there. The expert said that babies born to obese mothers also face their own set of challenges. They are at a higher risk of congenital anomalies, such as spina bifida or cardiac defects.
advertisement
"They may be born larger than average, a condition known as macrosomia. This can make delivery more difficult and increase the risk of injuries during birth," she said.
How do we mitigate these risks?
Doctors stress the importance of managing obesity before and during pregnancy. This involves counselling on healthy weight gain, dietary changes, and incorporating physical activity into daily routines.
"If you're planning to start a family and are concerned about obesity, it's essential to seek guidance from healthcare providers. They can offer personalised advice and support to help you navigate this journey safely," said Dr Deorukhkar.
Published By: Daphne Clarance Published On: Apr 9, 2024
Tune In
