Obesity During Pregnancy in Clinical Practice

Obesity in a mother during pregnancy can have a major impact on offspring development and maternal metabolism. Maternal obesity disrupts the processes of glucose homeostasis, fat oxidation, insulin resistance and amino acid synthesis. Such changes contribute to adverse outcomes, with increased odds of children born with congenital anomalies including spina bifida and neural tube defects. Other anomalies such as cleft lip and palate, anorectal atresia, hydrocephalus, septal anomalies and limb reduction anomalies are other complications associated with this condition. Obesity also affects the mother negatively with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension and blood clots. An obese mother is at higher risk of going into preterm labor, undergoing a C-section or delivering with shoulder dystocia. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the impact of obesity during pregnancy in a clinical setting. From theories to research to practical applications, case studies related to all contemporary topics of relevance to this subject have been included in this book. With state-of-the-art inputs by acclaimed experts of this field, this book targets students and professionals.