Impact of maternal basal BMI on Obstetric outcome

AIMS OF THE STUDY: To study the incidence of abnormal BMI in our population of pregnant women and to compare the obstetric outcome in various BMI categories. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A crossectional study was carried out in the Instituite of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Egmore, Chennai. 1010 pregnant women with singleton gestation who were planning to deliver in the same hospital were selected over a period of 12 months. They were placed in 4 groups based on their BMI and their outcome variables were studied. RESULTS: • Maternal basal BMI has strong association with pregnancy complications and outcome. • Both obese and overweight women have an increased incidence of gestational diabetes, hypertension, rates of induction, instrumental delivery, third stage complications, macrosomia, postpartum infections and prolonged hospital stay. • This study showed that the association between low BMI and preterm deliveries was not significant. There was an association between low BMI and low birth weight. CONCLUSION: As the obstetrical outcome is significantly altered due to obesity, we can improve maternal outcome by overcoming obesity. As obesity is a modifiable risk factor, preconception counseling, creating awareness regarding health risk associated with obesity should be encouraged and obstetrical complications reduced.