The course of pregnancy and perinatal period in overweight or obese pregnant women with regard to the condition of the newborn – own experience

Summary Objectives: The aim of the study was to estimate whether obesity and overweight influence the course of a pregnancy and labor and to assess the condition of a newborn. Material and Methods: 92 cases of pregnant women with singleton pregnancy were analyzed and assessed. The patients were divided into three groups according to their body mass index. Women with BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 comprised the first group (controls), those with BMI from 25.0 to 29.9 – the second group (overweight but not obese) and those with BMI of 30 and above – the third one (obese). Results: Average weight gain in the course of a pregnancy was significantly lower in the obese group whereas average blood pressure in obese women was significantly higher than in the control group. Gestational complications, such as hypertension and gestational edemas were more common in the third group. Birth weight and neonatal outcome were similar in all groups. Conclusions: 1. There is a higher risk of complications in pregnancy in overweight and obese women. 2. Obesity of women may worsen the outcome of the neonate