Abstract

RAPOSO, Laura et al. Maternal obesity and pregnancy outcomes. Arq Med [online]. 2011, vol.25, n.3, pp.115-122. ISSN 2183-2447.

According to World Health Organization, obesity is defined as a disease by which an excessive body fat accumulation can reach levels capable of affecting health. in recent years, obesity prevalence had an exponential growth in many countries. between 2003 and 2005, the “Sociedade Portuguesa para o Estudo da Obesidade” ascertained a prevalence of obesity of 13,5% amongst the female population. recent studies showed that a high pre-conception maternal body mass index is associated with serious short- and long-term complications for mother and child. The main maternal complications are gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, induction of labour, caesarean delivery, long and instrumental vaginal delivery, postpartum haemorrhage, infections, tromboembolic disorders and maternal death. These gestations are also associated with high rates of fetal and neonatal complications such as congenital anomalies, macrosomia, low 5 minutes Apgar score, admission to neonatal intensive care unit, and fetal and neonatal mortality. in conclusion, pregnancy in obese women is considered of high risk and should be followed by a multi-specialized team. it is necessary to delineate prevention and management programs.

Keywords : pregnancy; obesity; comorbidities; body mass index.

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