WeCARE Enhancing Perinatal Care for Women with Obesity

Considering scientific evidence there is a blind spot in the understanding of the best care management for women with obesity over the childbearing continuum. A promising approach to the care of women with obesity might be considering ‘optimal care’ rather than imperatively striving for normality. Optimal perinatal care aims to achieve the best possible outcomes for the individual woman and her child. This includes not only medical safety but also care tailor to the specific needs to avoid weight stigmatization, meet expectations and achieve a positive birth experience.

Aim

We aim to optimize maternity care management of women with obesity and offer them equitable care in a weight-stigma-free environment.

Course of action

State-of-the-art quantitative and qualitative methods are used to investigate optimal maternity care and enhance the health and well-being of women with obesity and their children.

Results

Understanding mechanisms for reducing perinatal adverse outcomes among women with obesity

Understanding mechanisms to reduce perinatal adverse outcomes among women with obesity is complex, with challenging contributors. We show associations between obesity and adverse birth outcomes, suggesting potential links to psychosocial factors like negative attitudes and beliefs toward women with obesity. These factors can influence healthcare professionals' decisions and care provision.

1.    Preventing weight stigmatization - improving psychosocial well-being.

Recognizing the necessity of providing weight-stigma-free maternity care is crucial for enhancing the quality of care and service provision.
We show that perceived weight stigmatization and women’s subsequent reactions (e.g., weight gain and retention, reduced breastfeeding, avoiding healthcare services) were linked to care needs that should be translated into maternity healthcare provision.

2.    Positive childbirth expectations for a better birth experience. 

We highlighted the importance of understanding childbirth expectations among women with obesity. Enhancing positive childbirth expectations in women with obesity may increase the positive experience of labor and thus contribute to better health and well-being. 

3.    Strengthening intention to breastfeed to get off to a great start. 

To improve breastfeeding initiation and duration among women with obesity, we suggest strengthening prenatal breastfeeding intentions and reducing risks of hindering factors to breastfeeding initiation such as complicated birth. Consistent support throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum is essential for breastfeeding success among women with obesity.