Explain the Pregnancy and Obesity?
Obesity is associated with increased risk for gestational diabetes, hypertension, pre- eclampsia, perinatal mortality and the need for induced labour or caesarian section. Lower weight gains are acceptable for overweight women because the foetus can receive a part of its energy requirements from the maternal stores. Studies have shown that obese mothers have the best pregnancy outcomes when they gain approximately 6-7 kg during pregnancy.
Each obese pregnant woman should receive individual assessment and be given nutrition counseling at the beginning and throughout the course of pregnancy. Weight management should be directed towards a slower rate of gain rather than weight loss at any time during gestation. Besides this, a carefully supervised exercise programme should be recommended as adjuncts for cardiovascular fitness, maintaining a sense of well-being and normal blood sugar levels.