Weight-Loss Surgery May Ease Childbirth Risks

During pregnancy many women tend to become overweight or obese. This can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. Obesity leads to pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, cesarean delivery and postpartum infection.

The fetus may be prone to neural tube defects, birth trauma and sometimes death in extreme cases. Hence its essential for a pregnant woman to monitor their body weight and take corrective action to keep obesity under control. An appropriate amount of weight gain is advised during pregnancy. Lets look at the recommended weight guidelines during pregnancy:

• For women with a normal weight prior to pregnancy, 25-35 pounds weight gain is advisable during pregnancy

• For overweight prior to pregnancy: 15 to 25 pounds can be gained during pregnancy.

• If you are underweight prior to pregnancy: gain 28 to 40 pounds during pregnancy

• For multiple pregnancy twins, triplets or more, seek the advice of your health care provider as you may need to gain more weight depending on the number of babies you are carrying.