Assessment of Nutritional related problems during antenatal period

AIM: To assess social parameters impacting nutrition related problems during antenatal period.  Methods: Information regarding demographic profile, anthropometric measurements (BMI), symptoms during various trimesters, support received during the course of pregnancy and consultation with dietitian was gathered from 60 pregnant women at Fernandez Hospital, Hyderabad, with the help of well-designed interview schedule.  Observations: The incidence of pregnancy related complications increased with age. About 96% of the pregnant women were educated but only 27% were employed.  Before pregnancy only 37 % of the women were overweight and 12 percent were type-1 obese, but during pregnancy 39 percent of the women were pre obese while 35 percent were type-1 obese. Pregnant women experienced various symptoms during third trimester like, morning sickness (65%), lethargy (38%), acidity (25%) and oedema (18%). Since majority of the women were living in nuclear family, 43 percent received support from their husband in preparing meals. Information regarding visit to dietician showed that 40 percent of the pregnant women consulted dietitian during 1st pregnancy and during 3rd trimester due to increased BMI. The misconception of avoiding papaya during pregnancy is strongly believed by the subjects under study. Results: The results indicated that age, family type, eating habits and nutrient intake could increases the risk of complication during pregnancy. It was also observed that various symptoms during pregnancy had an impact on food intake which in turn could affect pregnancy outcome. Conclusion: Pregnant women should be encouraged to consult dietitian to reduce complications and enhance pregnancy outcome.