Maternal body mass index and pregnancy outcome

To evaluate the impact of the maternal body mass index on the pregnancy outcome.

Seven hundred eighty four women who had singleton pregnancies during a one year period, were categorized into 5 groups on the basis of their maternal Body Mass Index (BMI). The maternal and the neonatal outcome were noted in all the groups.

In the underweight group, the incidences of anaemia and growth retardation were more, while the overweight and the obese women had a higher risk for PIH, gestational diabetes and Large for gestational age (LGA). The groups 4 and 5 had higher incidences of LSCS, wound sepsis and neonatal ICU admissions. There was no significant increase in the perinatal mortality rate.

The health of women, throughout their childbearing ages, should be addressed, to improve their obstetrical and perinatal outcomes. Also, the high risk groups should be managed at tertiary centers.