Women living with obesity may need extra support during pregnancy and childbirth. Although many births will be uncomplicated, the chances of you having certain pregnancy-related complications increase. There is also a greater chance of your baby being born in an operating theatre.
Talking to an anaesthetist during pregnancy
During pregnancy, you may be offered an appointment to talk to an anaesthetist about your thoughts on pain relief and anaesthetic choices for your labour and delivery. It is easier to do this in relaxed surroundings, rather than trying to explain things when you are in labour.
You have the same choices for pain relief in labour as any other mother. But sometimes, things like taking blood, putting in a drip, having an epidural or anaesthetic might take a bit longer or require extra equipment.
If you are taking blood-thinning injections during pregnancy, we can discuss with you when to stop these.
For more information about how living with obesity may affect you and your baby, view this page on the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists website.
