Pregnancy Complications by Overweight

Overweight and obesity raise the risk of pregnancy complications for both mother and baby. Pregnant women who are overweight or obese may have an increased risk for:

Gestational diabetes (high blood sugar during pregnancy).
Pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy that can cause severe problems for both mother and baby if left untreated).
Cesarean delivery or complications with cesarean delivery.
Babies of overweight or obese mothers have an increased risk of neural tube defects (defects of the brain and spinal cord), stillbirth, prematurity, and being large for gestational age.

How are they linked to overweight?

Pregnant women who are overweight are more likely to develop insulin resistance, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure. (Insulin resistance is when cells do not respond properly to the hormone insulin, which carries blood sugar to cells for energy. It may result in high levels of blood sugar.) Overweight also increases the risks associated with surgery and anesthesia, and severe obesity increases operative time and blood loss.

Some studies have shown that gaining excess weight during pregnancy—even without becoming obese—may increase risks. It is important to consult with your obstetrician or other health care provider about how much weight to gain during pregnancy.

What can weight loss do?

Women who are overweight or obese and who would like to become pregnant should speak with their health care provider about losing weight before becoming pregnant. Pre-pregnancy weight loss significantly reduces pregnancy complications. Pregnant women who are overweight or obese should speak with their health care provider about limiting gestational weight gain and being physically active during pregnancy.