9. Obesity

• Too much weight gain, resulting to Body Mass Index equal to/more than 30. 

• In pregnancy most women gain between 10 – 12.5kg; putting most of the weight after 20weeks. 

• Much of the extra weight is due to your baby growing; part of the weight-gain is due to the body storing fat; ready to make breast milk after your baby is born. 

• Too much weight gain in pregnancy can lead to all sorts of health problems like: high blood pressure, diabetes, symphysis pubis dysfunction and general fatigue in pregnancy. 

• Too much weight gain in pregnancy can also increase risks of complications like: big baby, shoulder dystocia, birth trauma to mother and baby, significant perineal tears and post-partum haemorrhage (PPH). 

Management to improve outcomes: 

• Adhere to the Care Pathway developed for you to manage your pregnancy. 

• Comply with advice given by your health professionals through your pregnancy. 

• Eat a healthy diet; cooperate with advice of your Dietician. 

• Stay active and well hydrated. 

• Read and inform yourself about the condition and management and take ownership of it.