Obesity and pregnancy

Question 1

What BMI is defined as obese during antenatal appointments?

Answer 1

30

Question 2

What are the maternal risks of obesity during pregnancy?

Answer 2

Miscarriage
VTE
Gestational diabetes
Pre-eclampsia
Dysfunctional labour
PPH
Wound infections

Question 3

What are the fetal risks of obesity during pregnancy?

Answer 3

Macrosomia
Congenital abnormalities
Prematurity
Stillbirth
Obesity and metabolic disorders during childhood
Neonatal death

Question 4

What is the advice regarding weight loss for obese women during pregnancy?

Answer 4

Women should not try to lose weight by dieting - medical professionals will manage the risk

Question 5

How much folic acid should obese women take during pregnancy?

Answer 5

5mg per day (instead of 400mcg)

Question 6

What is the additional management of obesity in pregnancy?

Answer 6

Obese women should be offered a OGTT at 24-28 weeks
BMI > 35 should give birth in a consultant led unit
BMI > 40 should have an antenatal consultation with an obstetric anaethetist