Maternal obesity and pregnancy: a retrospective study

Abstract

Objectives: to establish the incidence of obesity in the pregnant population in a large city in the North West of England, identify links between obesity and social deprivation, and compare outcomes of pregnancy in obese and non-obese women.

Design: retrospective cohort study using maternal records.

Setting: largest maternity hospital in Europe.

Participants: 8176 women who gave birth at the study hospital in 2006.

Findings: data showed that 17.7% of women were clinically obese. Obesity rates increased with advancing age. The incidence of pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, induction of labour, caesarean section and fetal macrosomia was significantly higher amongst the obese population. No relationship was found between obesity and social deprivation.

Conclusions: this study ascertained the exact incidence of maternal obesity in the local area and showed the increased risks associated with obesity and pregnancy.

Implications for practice: this study supports the need for a shared-care approach to antenatal care and that obese women should give birth in consultant-led units. The support of a named midwife should be available to these women throughout the childbearing experience, and preconception care advocated.