Commenting on the study published today (Wednesday, 20th January 2010), in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology on maternal obesity and pregnancy outcomes, Louise Silverton, deputy general secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: “This is a welcome study that reinforces previous research on the issue.
 
“The links between obesity in pregnancy and poor outcomes for mother and child are becoming more and more apparent. The health of both can be affected in potentially very serious ways, and there is no doubt that this needs addressing as a matter of urgency. The results of obesity- poorer health for mother and child - also lead to greater future strain on health services, so this is something that also has major effects beyond pregnancy.
 
“As a result of the increase in obesity among pregnant women, midwives are dealing with more complex births – on top of the continuing baby boom.  Midwives need more time to spend with these women, to help and advise them, and Trusts should be making sure that they have the resources in place to do this.
 
“There are many good examples of midwives using and developing innovative ways of helping obese pregnant women, and Trusts should be learning from each other to adopt and use these examples of good practice.
 
“There is also a much broader public health message needed about obesity, that being seriously overweight can have a profound and negative affect on health.”
 
 
For more information contact the RCM Press Office on 020 7312 3456
 
Notes to editors
The Royal College of Midwives is the voice of midwifery. We are the UK’s only trade union and professional organisation led by midwives for midwives. The vast majority of the midwifery profession are our members. The RCM promotes midwifery, quality maternity services and professional standards. We support and represent our members individually and collectively in all four UK countries.  We influence on behalf of our members and for the interests of the women and families for which they care.  For more information visit the RCM website at www.rcm.org.uk.