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Obstetric Performance of Nigerian Obese Parturients


Oladapo O. Olayemi
Celestine O Umuerri
Christopher O. Aimakhu

Abstract

Context: Obesity constitutes a health hazard and the greater the degree of obesity, the greater the health risks. This is especially so in obstetric practice where complications of pregnancy are reportedly greater in obese patients.


Objectives: To determine the prevalence of obesity and to compare the outcome of pregnancy between obese and non-obese patients.


Material and Methods: A review of the case records over a five-year period at a Nigerian teaching hospital to identify obese patients who delivered babies was done. Outcome of pregnancy in the 205 obese patients identified (using a weight of 90 kg and above as cut-off) was compared with 206 controls.


Results: The incidence of obesity in pregnancy was 7.4%. The obese patients were older than the controls (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in socio-economic status in the two groups. More of the obese patients were multiparous (p <0.01). Preeclampsia was significantly more common in the obese group (p<0.001). The caesarean section rate was also higher in the obese group (p<0.001). The incidence of fetal macrosomia was higher in the obese group (p<0.001).


Conclusion: Obesity increased the risk of preeclampsia and fetal macrosomia and operative deliveries. The risk of birth asphyxia and perinatal mortality were not increased by obesity.


Key Words: Obesity, Parturient, Maternal, Neonatal, Outcome.


[Trop J Obstet Gynaecol, 2002, 19: 17-20].

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eISSN: 0189-5117