New reseach shows consquences for overweight mums
New research has shown that overweight pregnancy can lead to health consequences for children.
Though not visible until childhood, the research, released from US organisation March of Dimes, has discovered there could be serious health problems for both the mother and baby if there's an overweight pregnancy.
The main risk is the baby being overweight if the mother is. This can lead to a higher risk of developing insulin resistance, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, all of which could continue on to diabetes or heart disease.
The March of Dimes Foundation is a non-profit organisation that works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.
Medical director of March of Dimes, Alan R. Fleischman, said: "We realise that weight is a sensitive subject for many women and that some health care professionals are uncomfortable discussing it, but weight is a risk factor that can be modified."
He continues: "If a woman starts pregnancy at a healthy weight, it can not only lower the risk of preterm birth and birth defects, but can give her baby a healthier start that can have life-long benefits."
The organisation have recommended that women who are planning a pregnancy should go for a health check up to identify any problems that may arise.