[Maternal, foetal, obstetrical and neonatal risks of preconceptional obesity and effectiveness of interventions]

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Obesity affects one in five pregnant women in Europe.
• Obesity is an independent risk factor for maternal and fetal complications, escalating with pre-conceptional body mass index.
• Excessive gestational weight gain exacerbates pregnancy and delivery risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the risks associated with obesity in pregnancy.
• To emphasize the importance of monitoring weight and complications.
• To recommend preventive measures for managing gestational weight gain.

Main Methods:

• Clinicians should monitor pre-conceptional body mass index.
• Regular body weight measurement from the first trimester is recommended.
• Monitoring for maternal and fetal complications is essential.

Main Results:

• Obesity is linked to increased maternal and fetal complications.
• Gestational weight gain amplifies these risks.
• Early and consistent monitoring can identify at-risk pregnancies.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians must actively manage obesity and weight gain in pregnant patients.
• A balanced, low-glycemic diet and moderate physical activity are recommended.
• These interventions help control gestational weight gain and reduce short- and long-term complications for mother and infant.