The multidisciplinary approach to the care of the obese parturient

Neda Ghaffari1, Sindhu K Srinivas1, Celeste P Durnwald1

  • 1Maternal and Child Health Research Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA.

Maternal obesity in pregnancy is associated with increased maternal and fetal risks. Pregnancy management should include counseling, screening, and optimization of maternal health, increased fetal surveillance, and preparation for parturition. A multidisciplinary approach should be implemented including collaboration from obstetricians, nutritionists, anesthesiologists, social workers, and neonatologists to optimize perinatal outcomes. Pregnancy is an ideal window of opportunity to influence both the patient's long-term health and the health of the offspring.

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