Obesity has emerged as a global health crisis, with its prevalence steadily increasing over the past few decades. Beyond aesthetic concerns, obesity significantly affects overall health and can have profound implications, especially during preconception planning and pregnancy.
Talking along the lines, the editorial team of Onlymyhealth spoke to Dr Manisha Tomar Consultant - Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Noida to make us understand the impact of obesity on our overall health and why vitals matter in preconception planning and pregnancy. Here is what she shared with us.
Understanding Obesity and its Health Implications
Obesity, characterised by excessive accumulation of body fat, is not merely a cosmetic issue but a complex medical condition associated with a myriad of health complications. Individuals with obesity are at heightened risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and certain cancers. Moreover, obesity adversely impacts fertility in both men and women, making conception challenging.
Obesity is identified when an individual's Body Mass Index (BMI) reaches 30 or above. BMI can be calculated by dividing weight in pounds by the square of height in inches, then multiplying by 703, or by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in metres.
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Preconception Planning: Why Vitals Matter
Preconception planning lays the foundation for a healthy pregnancy and optimal maternal and foetal outcomes. Monitoring vital signs, including blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and body mass index (BMI), is paramount during this phase. Elevated blood pressure and glucose levels are common among individuals with obesity and can significantly increase the risk of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth. Furthermore, an elevated BMI can impede fertility and increase the likelihood of miscarriage.
Impact on Pregnancy
Obesity exerts a considerable influence on pregnancy outcomes, posing risks to both the mother and the developing foetus. Women with obesity are more prone to experiencing gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, and caesarean deliveries. Moreover, infants born to mothers with obesity are at higher risk of developing obesity and metabolic disorders later in life, perpetuating the intergenerational cycle of obesity and its associated health burdens.
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Addressing the Challenge
Addressing obesity before conception and throughout pregnancy is crucial for mitigating associated risks and optimising outcomes. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes, regular physical activity, and weight management, are cornerstones of obesity management. Preconception counselling and interdisciplinary care involving healthcare professionals such as obstetricians, dietitians, and endocrinologists play a pivotal role in guiding individuals with obesity towards healthier lifestyles and optimising their reproductive health.
A Final Word
Obesity poses significant risks during preconception and pregnancy, impacting maternal and foetal health. By prioritising preconception monitoring, lifestyle changes, and interdisciplinary care, we can mitigate these risks and promote healthier outcomes. Collaborative efforts are essential to addressing the global obesity crisis and ensuring healthier futures for mothers and their children.