There have been many studies such as the Cedergren MI (2004) and the Baeten JM et al (2001), which researched on the relationship between obesity and pregnancy. It is universally agreed that obesity increases the health risk of both the mother and the child. Hence, it is always advised by a physician to avoid obesity during pregnancy.
What is Obesity?
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to determine if you are suffering from obesity or overweight. This is used before of after pregnancy as weight increase during pregnancy is absolutely normal.
Weight increase during pregnancy
It is normal and essential that the expectant mother will increase the intake of food so that the fetus gets sufficient nourishment. There is also a sudden reduction of physical activities. Genetic factors may also play a role in weight gain. During pregnancy you can refer to the chart below for weight increase (this chart is for single baby).
| Description |
Recommended Total Weight Gain (Pounds) |
| Underweight |
28–40 |
| Normal weight |
25–35 |
| Overweight |
15–25 |
| Obese |
15 |
Risk factors of obesity during pregnancy
There are many problems related to obesity and pregnancy. Ultrasonography will not be giving a clear picture if there is excessive body fat. Diagnosis of amniocentesis (sample of the fluid that surrounds a developing fetus) becomes difficult. Anesthesia selection, assessment and usage are a problem. Risk of infections, especially the urinary infections, is higher. Below are some more serious complications that might arise due to obesity.
- Arterial Hypertension (Pre-eclampsia): Increase in blood pressure and mental stress
- Diabetes Mellitus: Inappropriately high blood sugar
- Birth defects, most commonly neural tube defects
- Complications during labor and delivery
- Overweight or obese babies
- Fetal and neonatal deaths
- Premature births
Precautions to be taken if obesity occurs during pregnancy
You cannot follow dieting or undertake physical exercises to keep your weight down. This will be harmful for the proper development of the fetus. This is the time when the expectant mother requires taking in sufficient nutrition. A strict vigil should be kept on the amount of nutrition, calories and vitamins in your meals. Kindly consult your doctor for planned and calculated nutritious meals.
- Do not diet
- Follow a healthy and balanced meal
- Avoid sugary food.
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- Take folic acid, calcium and iron supplements if required
- Regular light exercise of less than 30 min is recommended.
- Do not smoke or consume alcohol
Read through the pages of pregnancyxl.com and acquire more knowledge about tips for women.
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