Effect of High BMI and Obesity during Pregnancy
Weight plays a significant role in a person’s pregnancy, with obesity having a particularly strong impact. Women who are obese are more likely to develop diabetes during pregnancy, known as gestational diabetes. Additionally, obesity increases the risk of delivering a larger-than-average baby, which can complicate the birthing process.
Furthermore, studies suggest that pregnant individuals with higher body mass index (BMI) may experience more sleep disturbances. They are at a greater risk of developing sleep apnea, a condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. These sleep-related issues can have a negative impact on the overall health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Effects of Low BMI on Pregnancy
Pregnancy can be affected not only by being overweight, but also by being underweight. Low body weight is particularly associated with an increased risk of preterm births. Furthermore, being underweight during pregnancy may also heighten the likelihood of requiring a cesarean delivery. To counteract these risks, experts advise underweight individuals to aim for a weight gain of two to five pounds before attempting to conceive, as well as during the first trimester.