Effect of Body Mass Index (BMI) and Weight Changes During Gestation on Perinatal and Maternal Outcome a Prospective Observational Study

Background Body mass index (BMI) and weight gain during pregnancy (GWG) significantly impact maternal and fetal health outcomes. Increasing rates of maternal obesity and underweight pose a dual burden globally, including in India. Aim To investigate the impact of pre-pregnancy BMI and GWG on maternal and perinatal outcomes in singleton pregnancies. Materials & Methods This prospective non-interventional observational study included 200 pregnant women over one year. Results Heights ranged from 142–178 cm (mean 157.50 ± 7.29 cm) and weights from 38–110 kg (mean 57.69 ± 12.49 kg). BMI ranged from 14.84–38.22 kg/m² (mean 23.29 ± 4.93 kg/m²). Mean GWG was 8.37 ± 3.85 kg. Significant differences in GWG were observed across BMI sub-groups (p < 0.001). Mode of delivery significantly correlated with BMI (p < 0.001). Maternal complications like surgical site infections, postpartum hemorrhage, etc. were significantly associated with BMI. Of the 200 pregnancies, there were 170 live births (89%), 16 intrauterine fetal deaths (8%), and 6 neonatal deaths (3%). Preterm deliveries constituted 24%, with term deliveries at 76%. Most babies had normal birth weight (60%), while 34% were low birth weight and 5% very low birth weight. Maternal BMI significantly correlated with birth weight. Fetal outcomes were significantly linked to antenatal complications (p = 0.013), but no significant associations were found between NICU admission and antenatal complications, mode of delivery, or BMI classifications. Conclusion Our study highlights the significant associations between BMI, GWG, and various pregnancy-related parameters, providing comprehensive insights into demographic, anthropometric, maternal, and fetal outcomes among pregnant women.