The impact of obesity on maternal and fetal outcome

Background: Maternal obesity has emerged as a major global health concern, exerting profound effects on pregnancy and long-term offspring health. The obesogenic intrauterine environment influences fetal growth, metabolic regulation, and developmental programming, thereby increasing the risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the influence of maternal obesity on maternal and fetal outcomes during pregnancy. Methods: A case-control study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of a tertiary care centre from July 2023 to December 2024. A total of 72 pregnant women were enrolled, comprising 36 obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) and 36 non-obese women with singleton pregnancies. Data were collected using a structured proforma covering sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric history, laboratory parameters, antenatal sonography, maternal complications, and neonatal outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 24.0; Chi-square and t-tests were applied with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: Obese women demonstrated higher pre-pregnancy weight and BMI, with comorbidities reported more frequently. LSCS rates were high in both groups, with a greater proportion among obese women (94.44%). Neonates of obese mothers showed significantly higher birth weights (p<0.001), wider variation in neonatal RBS (p=0.0045), and more USG abnormalities (p=0.0016). Fetal complications including jaundice, hypoglycemia, macrosomia, and congenital defects were observed exclusively in the obese group. Conclusions: Maternal obesity is associated with significant adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes, particularly increased birth weight, metabolic instability, and abnormal antenatal imaging. Strengthening preconception counseling, weight optimization, and close antenatal surveillance is essential to mitigate obesity-related pregnancy risks.