Birth defect risk higher for obese moms

Often when we hear about the many risks associate with obesity the focus is on the increased danger of developing potentially life-threatening conditions such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. Less-discussed is the fact that obese women have a much harder time conceiving, and now, a recent study reports that those who do, run a higher risk of giving birth to babies with birth defects.

A report by the University of Texas at Houston found that babies born to women who were obese before pregnancy were twice as likely to have spina bifida and there was also an increased risk of heart, anus, penis, limb, diaphragm and naval defects. There were also higher risks for kids born to overweight women, but instances weren't nearly as high as for those born to obese mothers.

The article discussing the study points out that it is always a good idea for obese women hoping to become moms to try to lose some weight before getting pregnant. For severely overweight women who are already pregnant, it is important not to try to diet but rather to discuss with your doctor what is an appropriate amount of weight to gain, as well as how to stay as healthy as possible during and after your pregnancy.