BMI & Birth

BMI in pregnancy comes up often in my classes & on my courses. It was mentioned in last nights pregnancy yoga class, so I thought I’d do a post about it here. Because there’s some stuff you should know about...

Health professionals often talk to pregnant folk about BMI being a risk factor for birth. It’s becoming a real issue.

For women with a higher BMI than average there can feel like a lot of pressure is put on them to make certain choices (and a lot of blame and shame too sadly)

But a very recently published book has looked at the research and evidence around BMI in pregnancy and birth. It’s rather a revelation. When the author dug into the evidence, it became clear that focus we place on BMI as a risk factor is problematic in a number of ways. The evidence in many ways lacking, or there is actually no or little increased risk. Here’s a summary of what the author found:

~ the additional tests, interventions and restrictions which are suggested when a woman has a higher BMI are often not supported by the evidence.

~ there is wide individual variation that is missed when we focus in on single risk factors or measurements, such as BMI.

~ focusing on BMI leads to weight stigma and disrespectful care, which are actively harming larger women.

~ there IS evidence that making assumptions & treating people differently because of how they look can lead to them having worse outcomes.

~ it’s important to differentiate between being healthly and having a higer BMI. Evidence shows they are not the same thing

evidence does not show a direct relationship between higher body weight or BMI and ill-health

~ having a higher BMI may be a risk factor for some people in some situations. BUT the issues are complex, both in maternity care & healthcare more widely

It’s important that up to date information and research is used when making decisions about choices and options in your pregnancy.

It’s also important to know you are a unique individual and discussion on risk with health care professionals should be nuanced & based on YOU

Join my complete Antenatal & Hypnobirthing course for the full picture on birth - making choices, risks & realities.

It you want to know more about BMI and be fully informed to make the right choices for you, then do buy the new book by Dr Sara Wickham 'Plus Sized Pregnancy - what the evidence really says about higher BMI and birth. I'II be bringing a copy to my next Antenatal & Hypnobirthing Course too.

There is also a fabulous resource here https://www.facebook.com/HealthyPregnancyAtAnySize Alice has a PHD and decades of experience supporting women with higher BMIs.

This instagram account may also be helpful: https://www.bigbirthas.co.uk/about-big-birtha/

Susan