Obesity is a Caesarean risk
6 September 2002
Obese first-time mothers are more likely than underweight mothers to experience Caesarean section for cephalopelvic disproportion (disproportionate size of the fetus relative to the size of the mother's pelvis) and failure to progress, say US doctors.
Over an 8-year period, the doctors reviewed deliveries of first-time mothers in a large private practice.
Mothers with a body mass index (BMI) more than 30 kg/m2 were 6 times more likely than those with a BMI less than 20 kg/m2 to require Caesarean section for cephalopelvic disproportion and failure to progress, the researchers wrote (American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2002; 187: 312-20).
Gaining excessive weight in pregnancy doubled the rate of Caesarean section for cephalopelvic disproportion and failure to progress among the normal weight women.
Last Reviewed: 09 September 2002
- 1. Medical Observer Weekly 6/9/02
