Background: Obesity is an expanding health problem worldwide. Pregnant obese women are predisposed to many pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes mellitus, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, induction of labor, preterm labor, preterm birth, increase rate of caesarean section, postpartum haemorrhage, anaemia, urinary tract infection, wound infection, and prolonged pregnancy

Objective: To find out the incidence of maternal and perinatal outcome in obese pregnant patients in a tertiary care hospital

Material and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umaid Hospital. A total of 150 obese pregnancies were recorded during the period of six months. Women were categorized into 3 classes based on the BMI. Class I: 30-34.9 kg/m², Class II: 35-39.9 kg/m², Class III: >40 kg/m². The maternal and perinatal outcome of the subjects evaluated in relation to body mass index.

Results:  A total of 150 women were included in the study fulfilling the inclusion criteria with BMI >30 kg/m². Out of 150 women 82 women had preeclampsia, 14 women had gestational diabetes mellitus. 39 women were post term. 8 women had IUGR. 5 women had preterm labor. Oligohydramnios were seen in 24 women. Out of 150 women, 67 delivered vaginally while 83 by LSCS. Post-partum haemorrhage was encountered in 13 women (8.6%) while 6 women had cervical tear, 8 women had wound gaping postoperatively and 2 women developed peripartum cardiomyopathy. Out of 150 babies delivered 42 needed NICU admissions due to low APGAR scores. Macrosomia was seen in 28 babies.

Conclusion: As the BMI increases pregnancy is more likely to get complicated. Obstetrical care providers must counsel their obese patients regarding the risks and complications conferred by obesity and the importance of weight loss.

Keywords: Body Mass Index, Maternal Outcome, Obesity, Perinatal Outcome.

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Dr Vinod

Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Umaid Hospital, Dr. S. N. Medical College, Jodhpur, Rajasthan