Plus-sized Pregnancy
23 weeks pregnant with baby #3
I was aproximately 250 lbs here and only gained a total of 16 lbs my entire pregnancy.
-Sherry Trowsse
As a soon-to-be mom, you may wonder what to expect when pregnant and giving birth as a plus-sized woman. Will you have to give birth via c-section? Are there any special precautions you need to take? Thankfully, many resources are available to help you through your pregnancy and childbirth. This blog post will provide tips and advice on having a safe and healthy pregnancy, no matter your size.
Educate yourself on the risks of being pregnant and give yourself the best chance for a healthy pregnancy.
Being plus-sized and pregnant comes with a unique set of challenges and risks. First and foremost, it's essential to be aware of these risks so that you can take steps to mitigate them. For example, plus-sized women are more likely to experience gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and c-section deliveries. They are also at a higher risk for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). So, what can you do to give yourself the best chance for a healthy pregnancy? First, make sure to eat a nutritious diet and get regular exercise. This will help to keep your blood sugar levels in check and reduce your risk for pre-eclampsia. Second, stay hydrated and move around often to avoid DVT. And finally, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor or healthcare team with any questions or concerns. By being proactive about your health, you can give yourself the best chance for a healthy pregnancy - no matter your size.
Find a supportive doctor or midwife who understands your needs.
As a plus-sized woman, it is important to find a doctor or midwife who understands your specific needs and can provide you with the care and support you deserve. Some providers are biased against bigger people, and if they make you feel unsupported, they may not be the best provider for you. A supportive doctor or midwife will help you navigate the challenges of pregnancy and ensure that you have a healthy and happy baby. I experienced this bias myself when I was pregnant with my third child and was referred to the high-risk clinic for the sole reason of having a high BMI. The nurse couldn’t believe that I could be big and not have any health complications. No diabetes, no high blood pressure, nothing, just a healthy person in a bigger body.
Make sure you're getting enough exercise and eating a balanced diet.
One of the most important things you can do for your health as a pregnant plus-sized woman is to ensure you're getting enough exercise and eating a balanced diet. I know; this is one of those things that they say for everything! Exercise helps to keep your heart healthy and your blood flowing, and it can also help to ease some of the common discomforts of pregnancy, like back pain and fatigue. It can also make it easier to change positions during labour since your body has been used to moving around during pregnancy. Eating a balanced diet is essential for you and your baby, as it helps ensure you get all the nutrients you need.
Learn about different birthing options and choose what's best for you.
As a pregnant plus-sized woman, you have many different birthing options available to you as long as there are no other health complications. Being plus-sized alone doesn’t stop you from being able to choose to give birth in a hospital, at a birthing center, or at home. You may also choose to have a water birth, a medication-free birth, or to use pain medication during labor. Learning about your options and deciding what's best for you is important. Talk to your doctor or midwife about your concerns and ask lots of questions. Be sure to also listen to your body and trust your instincts. Ultimately, you need to do what feels right for you and your baby.
Have a positive attitude and be prepared for changes to your body and lifestyle.
A positive attitude is essential for a healthy pregnancy, regardless of your size. Plus-sized women often face unique challenges during pregnancy, from finding comfortable clothing to dealing with insensitive comments. However, it is important to remember that every pregnancy is different, and you should focus on staying healthy and keeping your stress levels low. Be prepared for changes to your body and lifestyle and try to stay active throughout your pregnancy. You may need to adjust your diet and fitness routine, but a positive attitude will ensure a healthy pregnancy for you and your baby.
Ask for help from friends, family, or professionals when you need it.
As a pregnant plus-sized woman, asking for help when needed is important. Carrying around extra weight can put a lot of strain on your body, and you may feel fatigued or even experience back pain. If you're having trouble getting around, don't hesitate to ask your friends or family for help. Even something as simple as having someone else do the grocery shopping for you can take a load off your mind and allow you to focus on taking care of yourself and your baby. If you're struggling with anxiety or depression, there's no shame in seeking out professional help. A therapist can provide you with support and guidance during this difficult time. Remember, you're not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help you through this challenging period in your life.
I hope this helps and that you now better understand the extra challenges facing plus-sized women in pregnancy. If you still have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me – I would be happy to help.