Overweight can complicate pregnancy

Overweight and obesity have long been known to complicate pregnancy. Both overweight and obesity increase the chances for such serious and potentially life-threatening complications of pregnancy. According to a study at the University of North Carolina and the national Institute of child health, pregnant women who are overweight or obese progress through labor more slowly than do normal weight women.

The researchers found that, for both overweight and obese women, the active duration of labor took longer than it did for normal weight women. In the current study, researchers analyzed pregnancy and birth records from 612 North Carolina women who gave birth to their first child. The researchers undertook the study to determine why obese and overweight women are more likely to have a caesarean section.

The Researcher cautioned women about beginning a weight loss program without medical advice. Many fad diets might result in some weight loss, but at the expense of good nutrition. So it is important to consult a physician, before beginning a weight loss program.