There is abundant evidence that obesity has risks during pregnancy. These include a higher incidence of developing complications, such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, large baby and complications during labor and birth, including c section.
A new study suggests there may be additional and more long lasting risks. According to research conducted in the UK, women who are classified as obese have a higher incidence of congenital abnormalities compared with women of normal weight. The research involved analyzing articles of observational studies from nearly 2,000 sources.
The analysis showed women with a BMI over 30 had double the risk of having a baby with neural tube defects than women with a normal BMI. In addition, the risk of spina bifida was doubled and there was a higher risk of heart defects and hydrocephaly in the babies of women with a high BMI.
While the research is compelling and does indicate an increased risk, the actual incidence of congenital abnormalities is really small. Even with the added risk, the chances of having a baby with one of these abnormalities is very low. However, to completely eliminate the added risk, many doctors recommend a weight loss program prior to conception. This has actually been the recommendation of most doctors and nutritionists well before this study.
Obesity is classified as having a Body Mass Index over 30. A BMI over 25 is classified as overweight. Researchers haven’t determined a link between overweight and congenital birth defects. There are also many BMI calculators on the Internet to make it even easier. You can find them by searching Google. The CDC has one you can try here.
To view the abstract of the study, click here.
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