EP15.01: Unravelling the myriad effects of maternal obesity on maternal and fetal health: a case‐control study in a tertiary care centre

Maternal obesity presents a multifaceted challenge in modern obstetrics, with implications reaching beyond the individual to affect the health of both mother and the fetus. The rising prevalence of obesity worldwide has made it a crucial public health concern, and understanding the complexities involved in care of obese mothers is paramount for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes. This study aims to delve into the effects of maternal obesity on fetomaternal health, comparing outcomes between obese women and those with normal BMI. This is a prospective case-control study. We enrolled 554 antenatal women, comprising 227 obese women and 227 women with normal BMI who were booked at our Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. They were meticulously followed from enrolment until delivery, to look for development of complications during antepartum, intrapartum and postpartum period along with neonatal outcomes. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were compared using multivariate analyses controlling for confounding variables. Maternal obesity was significantly associated with an increased incidence of gestational diabetes, type 2 diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, preterm labour, preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), fetal growth restriction and also large for gestational age infants (p < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences in the rates of Caesarean section, antepartum or postpartum hemorrhage, or neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay for the baby. This study underscores the profound impact of maternal obesity on fetomaternal health, highlighting the need for comprehensive management strategies to mitigate these risks. By addressing the complexities of maternal obesity, healthcare providers can strive to improve outcomes for both mother and child, ensuring a healthier start to life for the next generation.