Impact of maternal obesity on perinatal complications

Introduction: Obesity during pregnancy is one of the important risk factors for development of complications. This study is conducted to assess the association of body mass index with maternal complications in pregnancy. Method: This was an observational study conducted retrospectively over a year comprised 300 pregnant subjects in second trimester. Incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH), Caesarean section and postoperative wound infection were compared in women with various Body Mass index (BMI). Analysis of the data was done using SPSS version 13 using chi square test and p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 300 participants, 62(20.7%) subjects developed GDM out of which 88.7% were overweight/obese. 61(20.3%) subjects developed PIH, out of which about 91.8% were overweight/obese. 162 (54%)subjects underwent C-section out of which 67(41.4%) were in overweight/obese category. 82 subjects developed post- operative wound infection in which 41 (50%)cases were in overweight/obese category Conclusion: Normal body mass index at the time of incidence of pregnancy and proper antenatal care and careful monitoring of the maternal body weight can minimize the complications to a large extent. Obstetrician-gynaecologists could play a prime position to prevent it.