Obesity during pregnancy increases risk to both mother and baby says RCM

The Royal College of Midwives has repeated its call for clearer guidance on healthy weight management for expectant mothers after a new study from the University of Edinburgh found links between high maternal body mass index (BMI) and the risk of adverse pregnancy and delivery outcomes in Scotland.

Dr Mary Ross-Davie, Director for Scotland at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), says: "Worryingly, maternal obesity is on the rise not only in Scotland but across the UK. Women who are obese during pregnancy need more care and closer monitoring than women with an average BMI. This can often mean more and longer appointments with their midwife and often this does put pressure on maternity services that are already overstretched.

The RCM has previously called on the government for clearer guidance on healthy weight management for expectant mothers, and more support, training and equipment for midwives so they can adequately support women who are struggling with obesity during pregnancy.