The effects of overweight and obesity on pregnancy-related morbidity

Objective: Overweight and obesity in pregnancy poses many possible complications for both mother and fetus. This article reviews the possible morbidity risks, including but not limited to pregnancy loss, maternal diabetes, hypertensive disorders, and post-partum complications, as well as possible neonatal and fetal complications. This article also provides recommendations regarding suggested antenatal weight gain and management strategies, and additional antenatal and postpartum management considerations. Mechanism: This is a review article summarizing the pertinent most recent data on overweight and obesity in pregnancy. Findings in brief: Obesity has effects on pregnancy loss, maternal diabetes, hypertensive disorders, venous thromboembolism, postpartum hemorrhage, and maternal infectious diseases. It also has an impact on preterm birth, management of prenatal ultrasound and induction of labor. Conclusions: Maternal overweight and obesity has many implications on pregnancy-related maternal morbidity.