Work

Changes in body mass index among pregnant women during labor over four decades: a retrospective longitudinal analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The global rise in maternal obesity presents a growing public health challenge, with significant implications for pregnancy outcomes. This study offers a comprehensive retrospective analysis of changes in Body Mass Index (BMI) among pregnant women during labor over four decades. MATERIAL AND METHODS: BMI data were retrospectively collected from 13,193 pregnant women divided into three cohorts: Group 0 (1986-1990), Group 1 (2009-2013), and Group 2 (2024). RESULTS: Mean BMI increased significantly from 23.75 kg/m² in Group 0 to 27.33 kg/m² in Group 2 (p < 0.001). The prevalence of obesity rose more than fivefold, from 4.87% to 25.76%. Regression analysis confirmed a linear and statistically significant upward trajectory across all groups. CONCLUSIONS: The sustained increase in maternal BMI underscores the urgency of implementing targeted interventions, including preconception counseling and personalized antenatal care, to mitigate the adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with elevated BMI.

Source: International Journal of Obesity

DOI: 10.1038/s41366-026-02021-6

Authors: Petra Gašparová, Zuzana Ballová, Martina Sitáš, Erik Dosedla

Institution: University of Pavol Jozef Šafárik

Language: English

Topic: Gestational Diabetes Research and Management

Subfield: Obstetrics and Gynecology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,790