Obesity

Question 1

what is obesity defined as?

Answer 1

Obesity is usually defined as a body mass index (BMI) >= 30 kg/m² at the first antenatal visi

Question 2

what are the maternal risks

Answer 2

miscarriage

venous thromboembolism

gestational diabetes

pre-eclampsia

dysfunctional labour, induced labour

postpartum haemorrhage

wound infections

Question 3

what is the c-section rate

Answer 3

high

Question 4

foetal risks

Answer 4

congenital anomaly

prematurity

macrosomia

stillbirth

increased risk of developing obesity and metabolic disorders in childhood

neonatal death

Question 5

mx

Answer 5

obese women should take 5mg of folic acid, rather than 400mcg

all obese women should be screened for gestational diabetes with an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 24-28 weeks

if the BMI >= 35 kg/m² women should give birth in a consultant-led obstetric unit

if the BMI >= 40 kg/m² should have an antenatal consultation with an obstetric anaesthetist and a plan made