Obesity has become a significant health concern globally, with increasing prevalence among pregnant women. This study aims to evaluate the impact of obesity on maternal and fetal outcomes in a tertiary care setting, given the known associations between obesity and various pregnancy‐related complications. To investigate the effects of maternal obesity on pregnancy outcomes, including both maternal and fetal health, at KIMS and RF, a tertiary care hospital in Amalapuram, Andhra Pradesh. A retrospective observational study was conducted from July 2023 to June 2024. The study population consisted of 290 pregnant women who delivered at the hospital. Participants were classified based on BMI: normal (18.9‐24.9 kg/m²), overweight (25‐29.9 kg/m²) and obese (>30 kg/m²). Data were collected from medical records and analyzed using Chi‐square and Fisher’s exact tests. Among the study population, 80% were of normal BMI, 10.34% were overweight and 9.65% were obese. Obese women exhibited a significantly higher incidence of maternal complications such as gestational hypertension (10.3%), preeclampsia (15.5%) and gestational diabetes mellitus (34.48%). They also had increased rates of cesarean sections (62.06%), postpartum hemorrhage (25.86%), and wound infections (10.34%). Fetal complications included macrosomia (10.34%), shoulder dysstocia (5.17%), and higher NICU admissions (17.24%). Neonatal mortality was also notably higher among off spring of obese mothers (3.44%). Maternal obesity significantly affects pregnancy outcomes, leading to higher rates of complications for both mothers and their infants. Enhanced prenatal and antenatal care strategies are crucial for managing obesity‐related risks in pregnancy.
Kothapalli Indira Suryakumari, Varada A. Hasamnis and Saraddi Sai Tejaswini. Obesity in Pregnancy and its Implications on Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in a Tertiary Care Centre.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.10.212.218
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2024.10.212.218