Effects of Body Mass Index (BMI) on Pregnancy - A Prospective Observational Study on Obstetric and Fetal Outcome

Aim and Background: Maternal body mass index (BMI) plays a vital role in the well-being of mother and foetus. This study aims at comparing the maternal and fetal outcomes among pregnant women with low BMI, normal BMI and high BMI in local population. Methods: A prospective observational study conducted in a tertiary hospital from May 2022 to April 2024. (24 months). Results: It was noted that BMI of varied categories had significant outcome in mothers and foetus. High BMI mothers had higher risk of GDM (overweight 1.98 and obese 3.92), gestational hypertension (overweight – 2.74, obese 9.05 and morbid obese 7.06) with significant p value <0.05. Odd’s ratio for preterm delivery for underweight, overweight, obese and morbid obese mothers were found to be 3.02, 1.46, 3.95, and 4.45 respectively, with significant p value <0.05. Risk for miscarriage was higher in higher BMI group of individuals with p value <0.05 and odds ratio in overweight 3.03, obese 1.95 and morbidly obese groups 8.70. Shoulder dystocia was associated with morbid obesity. The risk of PPH was also studied in this study, with increased risk in extremes of BMI (underweight 3.71, obese 3.96 and morbid obesity 15.93). Risk of hypoglycaemia and TTN was also measured and revealed risk was higher in underweight mothers and obese mothers. Conclusion: A conclusion was made that both low BMI and high BMI had an increased risk of pregnancy related complications as mentioned in the study. A higher incidence of GDM, gestational hypertension, miscarriage and neonatal hypoglycaemia, shoulder dystocia along with increased risk of emergency caesarean section was seen in high BMI group. In the lower BMI group, anemia and urinary tract infections was more common.