Prospective study on effect of obesity on maternal and fetal outcomes in obese pregnant women

Abstract

Objectives: To analyse adverse maternal and fetal outcomes in obese pregnant women. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in department of OBG, Government general hospital, Anantapur. 211 pre pregnant obese women and 211 non obese pregnant women were enrolled as study population and controls respectively. Results: Obese pregnant women were at increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus, pregnancy induced hypertension, preeclampsia, preterm labour, cesarean section, instrumental deliveries, postpartum infection morbidities when compared to non–pregnant women. Large for gestational age, macrosomia, birth injuries, shoulder dystocia, premature deliveries, late fetal deaths and congenital malformations were more common in new borns of obese pregnant women than in non–pregnant obese women. Conclusion: Obesity is a modifiable risk factor. Preconception counseling and creating awareness regarding health risks associated with overweight and obesity should be encouraged.