Does maternal underweight prior to conception influence pregnancy risks and outcome?

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Neonatology

Background:

• Data on pregnancy risks and neonatal outcomes for Caucasian women with pre-conceptional underweight are limited.
• Understanding these risks is crucial for optimizing maternal and infant health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze pregnancy risks and neonatal outcomes in nulliparous Caucasian women with pre-conceptional underweight compared to normal weight.
• To provide insights into the largest sub-group analysis of its kind.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study conducted in Northern Germany.
• Involved screening data from 3,854 nulliparous women (underweight BMI ≤ 18.5 kg/m² vs. normal weight BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m²).

Main Results:

• Significantly higher risks of preterm birth (23.3% vs. 18.6%) and neonatal underweight were observed in underweight mothers (p < 0.0001).
• The risk for secondary Cesarean sections was significantly lower in underweight women.
• Maternal outcomes and birth-associated trauma were not disadvantageously influenced by maternal underweight.

Conclusions:

• Pre-conceptionally underweight mothers face increased risks of preterm delivery and neonatal underweight.
• Maternal and neonatal outcomes regarding birth trauma, such as lacerations and Cesarean sections, are not negatively affected by maternal underweight.
• Further research is needed to address nutritional deficits and optimize interventions for underweight pregnant women to improve neonatal status.