Authors say findings support preconception weight interventions<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n
By Lori Solomon HealthDay Reporter<\/b><\/p>\n
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WEDNESDAY, Feb. 7, 2024 (HealthDay News) — There is a causal relationship between maternal pre-\/early-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and 14 of 20 adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes, according to a study published online Jan. 29 in\u00a0BMC Medicine<\/em>.<\/p>\n Maria Carolina Borges, Ph.D., from the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom, and colleagues explored the relation between maternal pre-\/early-pregnancy BMI and 20 pregnancy and perinatal outcomes. The analysis included data from more than 400,000 women.<\/p>\n The researchers found that multivariable regression, Mendelian randomization, and paternal negative control analyses all supported associations of higher maternal BMI with lower odds of maternal anemia, delivering a small-for-gestational-age baby, and initiating breastfeeding. All three methods demonstrated higher odds of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, prelabor membrane rupture, induction of labor, caesarean section, large-for-gestational-age baby, high birthweight, low Apgar score at one minute, and neonatal intensive care unit admission. In a multivariable regression, higher maternal BMI was associated with a higher risk for gestational hypertension (odds ratio,\u00e2\u0080\u00891.67), with similar results seen for Mendelian randomization (odds ratio,\u00e2\u0080\u00891.59).<\/p>\n “Preconception interventions to support women maintaining a healthy BMI may reduce the burden of obstetric and neonatal complications,” the authors write.<\/p>\n One author disclosed ties to the medical technology industry.<\/p>\n