Weight plays a vital role in determining pregnancy outcomes. Overweight women experience unique challenges in their pregnancies. Here, the doctors of the best clinic for pregnancy care in Kolkata have discussed the impact of being overweight on one’s pregnancy. 

Understanding Weight and Pregnancy

Maintaining a healthy weight both before and during pregnancy is important for both maternal and fetal health. But, for women who are obese or overweight, pregnancy can present potential complications and additional concerns. 

Risks associated with being overweight during pregnancy

  1. Gestational Diabetes: Women who are overweight have a high risk of developing gestational diabetes during their pregnancy. The condition can result in complications for both mother and baby, including fetal macrosomia or large birth weight, birth injuries, as well as an increased risk of cesarean delivery.


  1. High Blood Pressure or Preeclampsia: Being overweight is associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension and preeclampsia at the time of pregnancy. The latter is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, which can cause severe complications if left untreated.



  1. Preterm Birth: Obese women are at higher risk of delivering prematurely prior to 37 weeks of gestation. Preterm birth can enhance the risk of health issues for the baby, including developmental delays, respiratory issues and long-term health complications, explains doctors of the best high risk pregnancy care clinic in Kolkata. 


  1. Birth Complications: Overweight women may be at an increased risk of experiencing birth complications, such as labour dystocia (difficulty in labour progression) and shoulder dystocia (difficulty delivering the baby's shoulders), which can increase the probability of a cesarean section.



Ways to promote a healthy pregnancy outcome


  1. Nutrition and Exercise: Adopting a balanced diet and engaging in a regular exercise regime can help manage weight and promote overall health before and during pregnancy. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods, like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, can support optimal maternal and fetal development. 


  1. Prenatal Care: Regular prenatal care is essential for monitoring maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy. Doctors can offer guidance on weight management, monitor for potential complications and provide support to optimize pregnancy outcomes.

With proper preconception counselling and guidance from the doctors of the best clinic for pregnancy care in Kolkata, women can manage their excess weight and take the necessary steps to promote a healthy pregnancy outcome for themselves and their babies.