Changing paradigm of malnutrition among Bangladeshi women of reproductive age and gaps in national Nutrition Policies and Action Plans to tackle the emerging challenge

Both forms of malnutrition pose a risk for maternal and child health. Underweight mothers are at risk of having anemia, antepartum/postpartum hemorrhage, and premature rupture of membranes. Maternal obesity increases the risk of perinatal complications, such as gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, and cesarean deliveries. Currently, around 24% of the children are born to overweight/obese mothers and 15% to underweight mothers. Bangladesh should revise its national policies to address the double burden of malnutrition among women of reproductive age across pre-conception, pregnancy, and post-natal stages to ensure optimum maternal and child health.