Obesity in pregnancy: altered onset and progression of labour

Abstract

Background: the incidence of obesity increases in all developed countries to frightful percentages, also in women of reproductive age. Maternal obesity is associated with important obstetrical complications; and this group also exhibits a higher incidence of prolonged pregnancies and labours.

Objective: to review the literature on the pathophysiology of onset and progression of labour in obese woman and translate this knowledge into practical recommendations for clinical management.

Methods: a literature review, in particular a critical summary of research, in order to determine associations, gaps or inconsistencies in this specific but limited body of research.

Findings: the combination of a higher incidence of post-term childbirths and increased inadequate contraction pattern during the first stage of labour suggests an influence of obesity on myometrial activity. A pathophysiologic pathway for altered onset and progression of labour in obese pregnant women is proposed.

Conclusions: analysis of the literature shows that obesity is associated with an increased duration of pregnancy and prolonged duration of first stage of labour.

Implications for practice: an adapted clinical approach is suggested in these patients.

Keywords: Obesity; Onset of labour; Pregnancy; Progression of labour.