Medical evidence suggests that obese pregnant women have more Caesarean sections, and suffer risks such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. Their risk of death and birth defects for their children are also increased. The babies born to these women are nearly three times as likely to die within the first month of birth than mothers of normal weight, and that obese women are almost twice as likely to have a stillbirth.

Hospitals have had to adapt to dealing with these mothers, buying new equipment for ultrasounds, sturdier beds and examination tables, and providing sensitivity training to staff on how to talk to these patients about potentially losing weight or seeking out bariatric surgery.  The cost of childbirth for obese mothers skyrockets as well, from roughtly $13,000 to $200,000.

The Safe Motherhood Initiative urges obese moms to seek out lots of advice via medical consultations, even before conception.  Visits to a dietitian for meal plans can help one stay within the recommended weight gains during pregnancy. Surgery can also be an option, although it comes with its own risks.

Many physicians also think a change in attitude in the medical community toward obese patients might be due. The shame and stigma attached to obesity can lead patients to avoid doctor visits altogether – which can prove to be a dangerous choice for these expecting moms and their babies.

Photo: ExecutiveHM