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- Increased Risk of Complications and Interventions
Maternal obesity is associated with a higher likelihood of gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, macrosomia, and infections. It also raises the chances of caesarean section, labour induction, and instrumental delivery. - In-Utero Programming of Obesity
The metabolic environment of an obese mother can influence fetal development, effectively “programming” the child and doubling their risk of obesity later in life—creating a self-perpetuating cycle. - Macrosomia and Metabolic Challenges
Babies born to obese mothers are two to three times more likely to be macrosomic (large for gestational age). When gestational diabetes is present, the risks of perinatal mortality, excessive birth weight, and higher infant body fat further increase. These infants are also more susceptible to developing obesity and type 2 diabetes in the future. - Breastfeeding Challenges
Obese mothers may face greater difficulty initiating and maintaining breastfeeding due to physical, hormonal, and psychosocial factors. Their infants may therefore require additional feeding support. - Postpartum Pain and Recovery
Caesarean sections occur more frequently among obese women and are often linked to increased postpartum pain and slower recovery compared to vaginal births.