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The Impact of Obesity on Pregnancy: What Expecting Mothers Should Know

Approved By: Dr. Lakshmi Devi M August 09, 2024 | 11:54 am

Obesity is a persisting issue among women today. Sedentary lifestyles, genetics, sleep deprivation, underlying diseases, pharmaceutical drugs, overeating, and hypothyroidism are some of the plausible causes of obesity.

Obesity in women

Recent statistics reveal that India ranks third among the world’s most obese nations with more than 70% of its population categorized as obese. The percentage of obese women ranks higher than men.

So, why are women at a higher risk of obesity than men? Research shows that women are more prone to obesity because of several factors like menopause, female hormones, genetic disposition, and use of contraceptive pills.

Pregnancy and Obesity

Since obesity is more prevalent among women, obesity pregnancy is a matter of great concern.

Firstly, having a high BMI can affect your ability to conceive.  Obesity can hamper regular ovulation cycles thereby increasing the risk of infertility in women. Further, obesity also affects assisted conception like In Vitro Fertilization.

If you are obese and aspire to conceive, it is advisable to look for obesity pregnancy support at the best maternity hospital near you.

Obesity pregnancy support

Effects of obesity on pregnancy

Obese women who conceive are also at risk. Women with a high BMI may not be able to sustain the pregnancy and may also develop health risks and complications during the pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes and obesity

Gestational Diabetes and obesity are closely related. Pregnant women who are obese or rapidly gain weight during pregnancy are more prone to gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a condition where the blood sugar is very high.  Women who suffer from gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing diabetes mellitus in the future. Also, gestational diabetes can cause babies to grow larger than normal.

The best maternity hospitals in Bangalore are experienced in treating obesity in pregnancy cases.

Gestational hypertension

Gestational hypertension is high blood pressure during pregnancy. This condition can lead to serious complications for the mother as well as the baby. High blood pressure can lead to lower blood supply to the placenta which can result in lower oxygen supply and fewer nutrients to the baby. Consequently, the baby might have a slower birth rate and premature birth.

Preeclampsia

Obese women are at risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy. Preeclampsia is characterized by high protein levels in the urine and high blood pressure. It can lead to chronic conditions for the mother and baby.

Sleep apnea

Another cause for concern in obese women during pregnancy is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is when a person stops breathing for a short while during sleep. It can lead to high blood pressure, extreme fatigue, and preeclampsia. Sleep apnea can also result in preterm deliveries for pregnant women.

Consult the best obstetrician in Bangalore for obesity pregnancy support to combat sleep apnea and other adverse health conditions during pregnancy.

Summing up, despite the risks of obesity in your pregnancy, you can still have a healthy pregnancy. Your obstetrician will guide you through your pregnancy. Regular checkups at the best maternity hospital in Bangalore and following the best nutrition for obese pregnant women can go a long way in ensuring a healthy pregnancy.

Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Centre is one of the best maternity hospitals in Bangalore. We offer obesity pregnancy support through the best obstetricians in Bangalore.

At Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Centre, we follow the most advanced procedures in fertility treatments, providing hope to aspiring parents. Our state-of-the-art fertility center is modern and well-equipped making us one of the most preferred maternity hospitals in Bangalore.

We offer advanced facilities with top-class infrastructure to provide our patients with only the best healthcare services in Bangalore

Visit Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Center for obesity pregnancy support from the best obstetrician in Bangalore.

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