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Obesity at term: What to consider? How to deliver?

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Abstract

Obesity presents significant challenges during pregnancy, increasing the risk of complications and adverse outcomes for both mother and baby. With the rising prevalence of obesity among pregnant women, questions arise regarding optimal management, including timing of delivery and choice of delivery mode. Labour induction in obese women may require a combination of mechanical and pharmacological methods due to increased risk of failed induction. Caesarean section in obese women presents unique challenges, requiring comprehensive perioperative planning and specialized care to optimize outcomes. However, specific guidelines tailored to obese patients undergoing caesarean sections are lacking. Postpartum care should include vigilant monitoring for complications. Addressing obesity in pregnancy necessitates a multidisciplinary approach and specialized care to ensure the best outcomes.

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  1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Universitätsstr. 21-23, 91054, Erlangen, Germany

    Sven Kehl

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Kehl, S. Obesity at term: What to consider? How to deliver?. Arch Gynecol Obstet 309, 1725–1733 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-023-07354-5

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