A systematic review of the effects of pre‐pregnancy weight loss on perinatal outcomes among overweight and obese mothers
Public Deposited- Last Modified
- February 27, 2019
- Creator
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Richberg, Christopher
- Affiliation: Gillings School of Global Public Health, Public Health Leadership Program
- Abstract
- INTRODUCTION: Obesity has become an increasing health problem in the US over the past several decades, and is associated with health problems in all populations. Studies investigating the effects of obesity on pregnancy have shown an increase in adverse perinatal outcomes. The purpose of this systematic review was to analyze the existing literature on the effects of pre-pregnancy weight loss on perinatal outcomes among overweight and obese mothers. METHODS: PubMed and ISI Web of Knowledge were searched for relevant articles from 4/10/2011 to 5/23/2011; previous reference lists were reviewed to find other relevant studies. The review of the literature included 1021 abstracts and 55 full-text articles. Ten studies were included. Studies deemed to have “good” and “fair” internal validity were included in analysis. RESULTS: The evidence presents a mixed picture. Many studies were not significantly powered to produce statistically significant differences in outcomes. Although it does appear that pre-pregnancy weight loss may be associated with a decrease in preeclampsia and macrosomia, the effects on preterm birth, cesarean section, intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, and perinatal mortality are unclear. More high quality studies are needed to elucidate the effects of pre-pregnancy weight loss on these perinatal outcomes. CONCLUSION: While it appears that pre-pregnancy weight loss may be associated with a decrease in preeclampsia and macrosomia, the evidence is ultimately insufficient to determine the effects of pre-pregnancy weight loss on other perinatal outcomes.
- Date of publication
- August 2011
- DOI
- Resource type
- Rights statement
- In Copyright
- Note
- Track: HC&P
- Paper type: Systematic review
- Advisor
- Harris, Russell
- Degree
- Master of Public Health
- Degree granting institution
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Graduation year
- 2011
- Language
- Deposit record
- b6f6bdeb-f0b9-4907-a2ad-769b5d2e1080
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