Obesity in pregnancy is a serious condition. It can affect the woman’s health as well as cause harm to the growing fetus, resulting in pregnancy complications. However, understanding the condition and taking appropriate care can mitigate the risks of obesity during pregnancy. So, let’s start at the very beginning by understanding what obesity is.
Obesity is a condition where more than normal fat accumulates in the body, causing health complications. It is measured by calculating Body Mass Index. BMI is the result of dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters. Generally, people with a BMI of 30 or more are considered obese.
Obesity in pregnancy raises the chances of various health issues that can affect the pregnant woman and the growing fetus. In fact, statistics reveal a higher risk of miscarriage in obese women than in women with a normal BMI. So, what are the risks of obesity during pregnancy? Obesity can cause several health conditions for the pregnant woman, including:
Further, a high BMI in pregnancy can also adversely affect the growing fetus, resulting in various health conditions, including:
Although other conditions may also cause these health issues for the growing fetus, obesity or a high BMI is a crucial factor.
If you are pregnant and have a BMI reading of 30 or more, then you may be at risk of obesity during pregnancy. However, losing weight during pregnancy may not be ideal. So, what can you do if you are diagnosed with obesity in pregnancy?
Firstly, it is important to keep up with all your antenatal appointments. Regular visits to your maternity hospital allow your gynecologist to keep a close watch on your developing pregnancy.
On your visits, your doctor will be able to determine any health risks during the course of your pregnancy and take appropriate steps to prevent or manage your condition.
For example, since you are at a higher risk of gestational diabetes, your doctor will keep a close watch on your glucose levels. If your blood sugar levels are high, your gynecologist will advise you on how to control your sugar levels with diet and pregnancy-safe medications. Also, sleep apnea and increased blood pressure are common symptoms of obesity. Your doctor will advise frequent blood pressure checks and sleep apnea screening during your pregnancy. So, regular antenatal visits are important to mitigate the risks related to obesity in pregnancy.
To minimize the adverse effects of high BMI in pregnancy, it is important to eat a healthy, balanced, and nutritious diet. Your gynecologist and pregnancy nutritionist may most likely increase your intake of folic acid, protein, calcium, iron, and other essential nutrients to minimize the effects of obesity on you and the developing fetus.
Your doctor may prescribe some form of physical activity to mitigate the risks of obesity during pregnancy. Depending on your condition and other factors, your doctor may advise you to walk or practice light yoga or suggest any other form of light exercise.
Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Centre is the best maternity hospital in Whitefield, Bangalore. We have a dedicated team of doctors, highly experienced in managing complex pregnancies, including obesity in pregnancy.
Schedule your appointment today for a safe pregnancy and delivery at the best maternity hospital in Whitefield, Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Centre.
