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Excessive maternal weight and pregnancy outcome
J W Johnson1, J A Longmate, B Frentzen
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Increased maternal prepregnancy weight and gestational weight gain are linked to higher risks of fetal macrosomia and cesarean sections. These risks suggest current pregnancy weight gain recommendations may need reevaluation for improved maternal and fetal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Public Health Nutrition
Background:
- Maternal prepregnancy weight and gestational weight gain are critical factors influencing pregnancy outcomes.
- Understanding the impact of excessive weight gain is essential for optimizing prenatal care and recommendations.
Observation:
- A retrospective study analyzed 3191 term pregnancies to assess the effects of maternal weight.
- Increased prepregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain were evaluated against various obstetric outcomes.
Findings:
- Higher maternal prepregnancy weight and gestational weight gain correlated with increased risks of fetal macrosomia, labor abnormalities, postdatism, and cesarean sections.
- These factors also showed an association with a decreased incidence of low birth weight infants.
- The risks associated with excessive weight gain appear to outweigh the benefits, particularly concerning fetal macrosomia and subsequent complications.
Implications:
- Current pregnancy weight gain guidelines may require revision to mitigate risks associated with excessive maternal weight gain.
- These findings underscore the importance of individualized weight management strategies during pregnancy.
- Further research into the long-term effects and optimal weight gain ranges is warranted.