Obesity and Hypertension in Pregnant Women and Its Impact on Fetal Welfare

Abstract

Introduction: The incidence of obesity in all pregnancies is approximately 21.3%. In Indonesia, the prevalence of obesity increased by 15.4% by the end of 2019.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the relationship between obesity, pregnant-induced hypertension (PIH), and fetal welfare.

Methods: The research design was a prospective cohort study. The population consisted of second-trimester pregnant women with obesity and hypertension. A sample of 30 respondents was included. The study was conducted in a hospital from March to April 2023. The instruments used included observation sheets for obesity status, PIH, fetal heart rate (FHR), and fetal movement. The data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis statistical test.

Results: The results showed that the average age of obese and hypertensive pregnant women was 33 years, with an average gestational age of 23 weeks. The average FHR in obese pregnant women with PIH was 149 beats per minute, showing a significant relationship (p-value < .05). Obese or hypertensive pregnant women had an average FHR of 144 and 142 beats per minute, respectively, with a significant relationship (p-value < .05). There is a picture of fetal movement from obese and hypertensive mothers with an average DJJ of obese pregnant women 3x movements/hour and hypertensive or obese pregnant women with an average fetal movement of 4x movements/hour. With a p-value of 0.126. Based on the results of the analysis of the relationship between obesity and hypertension in the second trimester of pregnancy on fetal movement, it was found that there was no significant relationship (p-value > .05).

Conclusions: Obesity status and PIH are associated with fetal welfare. Pregnant women should undergo obesity and PIH screening before and after planning a pregnancy to prevent unwanted complications.