Effects of obesity on pregnancy.
OBJECTIVE
To examine physiologic and psychological outcomes associated with maternal obesity in pregnancy and patterns of pregnancy weight gain. To identify effective interventions for maternal obesity.


METHODS
Search of obesity and pregnancy research conducted over the past 10 years using CIHAHL, Medline ERIC, and PyscInfo databases. Studies including the following keywords were included in the review: obesity, weight gain, body image, pregnancy weight gain, pregnancy obesity complications, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Articles were included based on scientific merit and research outcomes.


CONCLUSIONS
Maternal obesity is a serious condition that significantly impacts not only mothers' health but also the health and future of their children. It is paramount that all levels of health care providers be aware of consequences of obesity and be knowledgeable of effective interventions. No effective long-term interventions have been demonstrated to prevent or control obesity during pregnancy. The paucity of published results of pregnancy and postpartum interventions to address weight gain in pregnancy suggests the need for more community and individualized based intervention studies, especially focusing on long-term effects.
Smith
Shelia A
SA
College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA. smitsa@musc.edu
Hulsey
Tara
T
Goodnight
William
W
D001828:Body Image; D016640:Diabetes, Gestational / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009765:Obesity / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D011295:Prenatal Care; D015430:Weight Gain