Pregnancy is one of the most exciting and life-changing experiences a woman can have. However, it is also a period of heightened vulnerability, where both the mother and the baby are at risk for a variety of complications.

One such complication is miscarriage, a pregnancy loss that occurs before the 20th week of gestation due to various reasons. Studies show that women who are overweight when they become pregnant are at an increased risk of miscarriage as compared to those with a healthy weight.

This article will delve into what it means to be overweight during pregnancy and how it increases the risk of miscarriage.

What is considered overweight during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through a lot of changes, and it is essential to maintain a healthy weight to ensure a successful pregnancy and delivery.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation that uses a person’s height and weight to determine if they are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. BMI is used to assess if a person has a healthy body weight for their height. For pregnant women, a healthy BMI ranges between 18.5 and 24.9.

An individual whose BMI is more than 25 but less than 30 is considered overweight, while an individual with a BMI of 30 or more is considered obese.

It is worth noting that the measurements of a woman’s BMI need to be adjusted before and after pregnancy as the recommended weight gain varies based on their pre-pregnancy weight.

How does being overweight increase the risk of miscarriage?

Studies conducted over the years reveal a direct correlation between a woman’s BMI and the probability of a miscarriage. Miscarriage risk increases with a higher BMI. Overweight women have a threefold increase in the risk of early pregnancy loss.

Several theories explain why there is an increased risk of miscarriage in overweight women. One mechanism is thought to be the link between PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and obesity.

Women who are overweight often have PCOS, which is one of the leading causes of infertility globally. A higher prevalence of PCOS in overweight women contributes to the higher prevalence of early pregnancy loss in this population.

Insulin resistance associated with PCOS may not be enough to maintain a pregnancy, leading to a higher likelihood of miscarriage.

Studies have also shown that overweight women tend to have higher levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in their bodies, both of which can contribute to pregnancy loss.

Obesity tends to trigger inflammation in the body, which can interfere with the hormonal balance required for a successful pregnancy. Inflammation can also impair blood flow to the placenta, which can deprive the fetus of oxygen and nutrients, leading to a higher risk of miscarriage.

Other risks associated with being overweight during pregnancy

Being overweight during pregnancy poses several other risks; some of these include:.

Gestational diabetes: Women who are overweight during pregnancy have an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes, which can cause complications for both the mother and baby.
Preeclampsia: This is a potentially life-threatening condition that affects some pregnant women, characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs like the liver and kidneys. Women who are obese are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy.
Macrosomia: This is a condition where a baby is significantly larger than average, increasing the risk of complicating delivery, and temporary or permanent birth injuries. Being overweight during pregnancy increases the risk of having a baby with macrosomia.

Preventing weight gain during pregnancy

Preventing weight gain during pregnancy may not be entirely possible, but steps can be taken to maintain a healthy weight gain. Gaining too much weight during pregnancy increases the risk of developing complications and bearing larger infants.

Here are a few tips on how to maintain a healthy weight gain:.

Eat a healthy diet: Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet and avoid excessive consumption of highly processed or junk foods.
Stay active: Exercise regularly to help control weight gain and improve your overall health. Engage in low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga, which are safe for pregnant women.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks and juices.
Get enough rest: Being well-rested is essential for overall health and can help control weight gain during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Being overweight during pregnancy not only increases the risk of miscarriage but also poses several other risks to both the mother and the baby. Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is crucial to ensure a successful pregnancy and delivery.

Pregnant women who are overweight should consult their healthcare providers on the best ways to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of complications.