Effect of maternal BMI on labor outcomes in primigravida pregnant women

BACKGROUND: This study aims to detect the effects of increased BMI on labor outcomes in primigravida pregnant women. METHODS: A cross-sectional study involved 600 full-term singleton primigravida pregnant women who presented in the active phase of labor to the labor ward. They were divided according to BMI into three equals groups; women with normal BMI (group I), overweight women (group II), and women with class I obesity (group III). RESULTS: We found that high BMI was associated with a significantly increased risk of Caesarean section (C.S.) (13% in group I, 18% in group II and 40% in group III). Women with higher BMI and delivered vaginally had a significantly prolonged first and second stage of labor, consequently increased the need for oxytocin augmentation as well as the oxytocin dose. Regarding the maternal and fetal outcomes, there are significantly increased risks of postpartum sepsis, perineal tears, wound infection, as well as significantly increased birth weight and longer neonatal stay in the neonatal unit (NNU). CONCLUSION: Obese primigravida pregnant women were at higher risk of suboptimal outcomes. Besides, prolonged first and second stages of labor and the incidence of C.S. have also been increased.