Reviewed by Womenrx.org
Written by Mathew Forster
One of the major problems experienced by women is excessive weight, which influences a few other conditions and affects their health in a long run. While you’re concerned about pregnancy and overweight, there are a few things that females must know and ensure the steps are considered for improvement.
Obesity and fertility
One of the biggest problems is BMI and this is linked to increased health complications. Not only does it affect health, but does have a negative impact on fertility. When it comes to the menstrual cycle, a fine hormonal balance is responsible to regulate the periods. Obesity is likely to get impacted by the alleviated levels of hormones known as leptin. This specific hormone does have an effect on fertility and makes it difficult for women to conceive or have regular cycles. Hence, most females are recommended to consider seeking the right advice at the right time to improve their conditions well.
Impact of being overweight on the health of an infant
Having the right Body Mass Index becomes necessary to ensure the weight is taken care of. This is likely to affect the health of the baby too. The well-being of the mother is linked to the baby and if a female is overweight, an infant is likely to experience the problems such as,
- Childhood obesity
- Growth problems
- Congenital disorder
- Childhood asthma
- Fetal macrosomia
How to consider taking care of yourself?
Even after being obese, women can conceive, yet there are certain measures and instructions to be followed. Here are the few things that are to be taken care of.
Fetal ultrasound
Usually, it is done between 18-20th weeks of gestation to know a baby’s anatomy. Women who have excessive fat need to know that ultrasound tests are not likely to penetrate the fats and therefore females are recommended to discuss the problems primarily with the health care experts to know about the growth of an infant.
Early tests to know about gestational diabetes
Women who have obesity are at the risk of having gestational diabetes and this should be taken care of during the initial stage. Often it is diagnosed in women between 24-28th weeks of gestation. Females with excessive BMI need to know the screening should be done during prenatal visits to understand the standard range and improve the conditions well. Monitoring the sugar levels during this period helps to ensure the problems are well managed.
Undergo few tests for sleep apnea
Sleep apnea is a problem wherein one breathing is repetitively stopped or started while sleeping. This problem is likely to increase the risk of preeclampsia and this can be well managed with the help of possible treatment.
Obesity and pregnancy are two different things and they are likely to influence the health of mother and infant. Hence, one needs to ensure the right measures and methods are followed to improve the conditions during the initial stage. Also, if you’re obese consider seeking assistance during the primary stage.