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Obesity and C-sections
Is There a Link Between the Two? By Teri Brown
"The thing to keep in mind here is that if you had trouble controlling your weight before you got pregnant, it isn't going to be any easier with baby on board," says Sember. "You're supposed to be hungry and you're supposed to be eating when you're pregnant, and you shouldn't feel bad about that. However, you've got to keep your eyes on the prize, which is a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby, and that means making good decisions for both of you."
Sember gives plus-sized women the following tips to help control their weight during pregnancy:
- The most important thing is to learn what the recommended weight gain is for you. Most physicians now believe that plus-size moms should gain about 15 to 20 pounds during pregnancy. Some women who are very obese may have different recommendations, so that's why it's important to have a conversation with your health care provider about it.
- Exercise is important. Sember encourages plus-size moms to try to get some exercise most days. "Now, when I say that, some people envision step aerobic classes and marathons and think 'I can't do that,'" she says. "When I say exercise, I mean moving your body walk the mall, swim, lift some small weights, do some Pilates or yoga. Exercise doesn't have to be horrible, and pregnancy is not the time to decide to take up kickboxing if you aren't already doing it. Do things that are comfortable for you."
- The next advice is to eat more frequent, smaller meals. You're going to be hungry during pregnancy so you've got to eat more frequently. For example, make yourself half a big bagel instead of a whole oneand say you'll have the other half later in the morning instead of right now.
- Drink a lot of fluids not only do you need them, but they help fill you up. Don't deprive yourself. Eat healthy food, but make sure you're satisfying your cravings.