Publication:

Association of physical metabolic markers with perinatal outcomes in low-risk pregnant women: a prospective cohort study

Background This prospective study was planned to study the correlation of all physical metabolic markers (BMI, WC, WHR, and WHtR) in the antenatal period with perinatal outcomes.

Methods All pregnant women who had first antenatal visit before 20 weeks were recruited into the study for period of 1 year. Detailed history was taken followed by a thorough general physical examination (including BMI, WC, WHR, and WHtR as per Indian standards).

Results In multivariate logistic regression model none of parameters actually predicted the onset of GDM. Incidence of LSCS showed significant association with WC and WHtR. BW>3.5 kgs and NICU admission had a significant statistical association with WHtR.

Conclusions BMI, WC, WHR and WHtR should be measured in all pregnant women at the first antenatal visit. WC predicts caesarean delivery, BMI predicts large for gestational age baby, and WHtR is a novel marker which predicts both.