Pregnant women with a weight problem are turning to a new NHS Tayside service that helps them improve their diet and take gentle exercise.
Nearly half of all pregnant women in Tayside are overweight, which puts mother and baby at increased risk of ill health and can lead to losing the baby.
Now overweight prospective parents are being offered help from the moment they approach their midwife and confirm the pregnancy.
A total of 30 pregnant women have sought help from the Optimum scheme at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee since it was launched there last November, while a further 12 expectant mothers have participated in the scheme at Montrose Infirmary since the launch there last month.
The scheme is expected to be available to pregnant women in Perth shortly.
One third of women are obese at the time of their first visit to the midwife, while 45% are classed as overweight.
The Optimum service encourages women to ensure they are eating a balanced diet.
Women are assessed for inclusion at the time of their first visit and may be referred to the Optimum service, where they will be given information on healthy eating, vitamins and gentle exercise that is suitable for them.
Ninewells-based midwifery team leader Linda Arnot said, “All midwives discuss the importance of healthy eating during pregnancy with mums-to-be.
“In Ninewells Optimum is a service designed to deliver extra support to women with a BMI greater than 40. The team consists of midwives… who can offer encouragement and support in weight management in addition to routine antenatal care.
“A consultant obstetrician and a nutritionist work alongside the team providing additional support and advice.”
Photo used under a Creative Commons licence courtesy of Flickr user Polina Sergeeva.