Factors Influencing Excessive Gestational Weight Gain Among Pregnant Women in Urban Malaysia
Keywords:
gestational weight gain, Antenatal care, maternal health, determinants, pregnancyAbstract
Introduction:
Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) is an emerging concern due to its association with adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Recognising the key factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions. This study aims to determine the prevalence of excessive GWG and its associated factors among pregnant women in the urban districts of Klang Valley, Malaysia.
Methodology:
A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 472 pregnant women from two randomly selected urban government health clinics in Klang Valley. The study period was from November 2017 to October 2018 and included women who delivered between 1st January 2015 and 31st December 2016. Data on sociodemographic, medical illness, and pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) were retrieved from the birth registry and maternal health records. The adequacy of GWG is based on the Institute of Medicine's recommendation.
Result:
A total of 113 (23.9%) pregnant women had excessive GWG. Multiple logistic regression showed the odds of getting excessive GWG were higher among those with lower education levels (Adj. OR = 1.85; 95% CI = 1.084, 3.147), being employed (Adj. OR = 2.30; 95% CI = 1.342, 3.928), nulliparous (Adj. OR = 2.46; 95% CI = 1.450, 4.164), and having pre-pregnancy BMI of equal or more 25kg/m2 (Adj. OR = 6.47; 95% CI = 3.909, 10.721).
Conclusion:
Lifestyle interventions, such as weight reduction programs and health education, should focus on women with high pre-pregnancy BMI, nulliparous women, working women and women with low education levels. Pre-pregnancy clinics and workplaces can serve as platforms to promote healthy dietary choices and encourage regular physical exercise.
References
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