Maternal obesity refers to obesity (often including being overweight) of a woman during pregnancy. Parental obesity refers to obesity of either parent during pregnancy.
Maternal obesity has a significant impact on maternal metabolism and offspring development.[1] Insulin resistance, glucose homeostasis, fat oxidation and amino acid synthesis are all disrupted by maternal obesity and contribute to adverse outcomes.[1] Modification of lifestyle is an effective intervention strategy for improvement of maternal metabolism and the prevention of adverse outcomes.[1]
Obesity is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater. A 5-foot-5-inch tall woman would be considered obese if she weighs 180 pounds or more and a 5-foot-8-inch tall woman would be considered obese if she weighs 200 pounds or more.[2] About one third of women of the reproductive ages are overweight with a BMI greater than or equal to twenty-five. [3]
- ^ a b c Nelson SM, Matthews P, Poston L (2010). "Maternal metabolism and obesity: modifiable determinants of pregnancy outcome". Human Reproduction Update. 16 (3): 255–75. doi:10.1093/humupd/dmp050. PMC 2849703. PMID 19966268.
- ^ Boyles S (3 February 2006). "Obesity Increases Risks in Pregnancy – Moms and Babies Have More Problems". WebMD Health News.
- ^ Mensink, G.B.M.; Schienkiewitz, A.; Haftenberger, M.; Lampert, T.; Ziese, T.; Scheidt-Nave, C. (May 2013). "Übergewicht und Adipositas in Deutschland: Ergebnisse der Studie zur Gesundheit Erwachsener in Deutschland (DEGS1)". Bundesgesundheitsblatt - Gesundheitsforschung - Gesundheitsschutz (in German). 56 (5–6): 786–794. doi:10.1007/s00103-012-1656-3. ISSN 1436-9990. PMID 23703499.