HYDERABAD: Increasing incidence of
overweight pregnancies and related complications like kidney failure is being recorded at city hospitals. Each week 3-4 cases of women weighing between 120-140 kg are reported at state-run hospitals alone and the number of cases at private hospitals are estimated to be three times higher.
“Last week, we saw a pregnancy case wherein a woman weighing 120 kgs and having other morbidities like high blood pressure suffered kidney failure. It took a lot of time and effort to stabilize her. Such cases are becoming increasingly common and we witness at least 3-4 such cases every week. Such cases are very complicated and need proper medical attention,” said a senior doctor at Modern Government Maternity hospital, Petlaburj.
Experts say there has been a three-fold rise in such cases in last five years. Also against the popular notion that obesity is largely affecting the affluent, majority of patients seeking treatment at government hospitals are from economically weaker sections of the society.
“Obesity during adolescent years is carried forward during pregnancy. Diet, genetics and lack of exercise also have a major role to play,” said Dr Shanta Kumari, gynaecologist and secretary TS chapter of Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India.
While generally women gain between 13-14 kg during pregnancy, for overweight women only 6-7 kg weight gain is recommended, Kumari added.
Overweight pregnancies come along with a host of complications including
gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiac and kidney issues apart from difficulty in labour. While the overall awareness and reporting of fertility issues has increased, many women are seeking help immediately after marriage for problems like PCOD and endometriosis.
“Overweight pregnancies are usually termed as high-risk pregnancies,” said Dr Ratna Durvasula, consultant infertility, Birthright fertility centre.
Image used for representational purpose only
