The Effect of Maternal Body Mass Index on Induction of Labour

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of maternal body mass index on mode of delivery following induction of labour and its subsequent postpartum complications and neonatal outcome. Method: A cross sectional study conducted in women admitted for labour induction with PGE2 in MGM Medical College and Hospital, Aurangabad at gestational age 32 weeks to 41 weeks for confinement during study period May 2022 to October 2022. Total 128 participants were stratified into 4 group based on maternal obesity classification and primary outcome of mode of delivery, postpartum complication and neonatal outcome where compared between obese and normal-weight women. Result: In study population with increasing maternal BMI, there was increase in failed induction of labour. In obese population there is increased incidence of prolonged pregnancy. Induction of labour was seen more common in primigravida. Preterm induction was indicated due to associated preeclampsia and PPROM. Incidence of postpartum hemorrhage, surgical site infection and shoulder dystocia were more in women with BMI>25kg/m². Conclusion: Obesity is one of the factor responsible for failed induction. Increasing maternal body mass index had increased risk of prolonged pregnancy and rate of induction of labour. Relationship between failed induction of labor with increasing class of obesity is true and BMI of women to be taken in consideration while counselling patient regarding likelihood of successful induction.

Keywords: Body mass index, Induction of labour, Obesity, Prolonged pregnancy