Newborn health affected by mother's weight

Research in Scotland has found the health of pregnant women and their babies is put at risk when mothers are overweight or underweight.

 

The analysis of 110,000 pregnancies between 2003 and 2010 showed the risk of complications increased in women with a higher BMI. These women also had an increased risk of hypertension and diabetes, which can affect the baby.

 

While obese women were 45% more likely to be re-admitted to hospital with problems after birth than women with a normal BMI, those who were underweight were 8% more likely to experience problems.

 

The authors of the report say the health service could save money by helping women reach a normal weight before pregnancy and say women need to be made aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy weight before conception.