A retrospective observational study evaluated predictors of gestational weight gain (GWG) outside recommended levels. Researchers found that pregnant women who were overweight or obese at the beginning of pregnancy had higher risks of excessive GWG, while underweight women had higher risks of inadequate weight gain.

A prediction tool was developed to identify women at risk of inadequate or excessive GWG by term, achieving high accuracy. Birthweight outcomes differed significantly by GWG category. The study identified those at risk of suboptimal GWG and subsequent adverse pregnancy outcomes and suggested the prediction tool could assist healthcare providers in targeting interventions for better maternal and child health outcomes.

Source: BMJ Open