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A comparison of maternal and paternal body mass index in early pregnancy.

Authors :: Kelly R
Farah N
O'Connor N
Kennelly M
Stuart B
Turner MJ
Source :: The Australian & New Zealand journal of obstetrics & gynaecology [Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol] 2011 Apr; Vol. 51 (2), pp. 147-50. Date of Electronic Publication: 2011 Jan 06.
Publication Year :: 2011
Abstract: Aim: To determine the body mass index (BMI) and the body composition of fathers-to-be and to compare the findings with those of mothers-to-be during early pregnancy.<br />Methods: This was a descriptive and comparative study based at a large university teaching hospital. We enrolled men whose partner booked for antenatal care in the first trimester of pregnancy during July 2009. The height and weight of both parents-to-be were measured digitally, and BMI was calculated. The body compositions of the couple were analysed using bioelectrical impedance.<br />Results: Of 167 fathers-to-be, 14% were obese (BMI > 29.9 kg/m2 ) compared with 16% of mothers-to-be (NS). However, 50% were overweight (BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m(2) ) compared with 26% of mothers-to-be (P < 0.001). This may be explained, in part, because the men were on average two years older than the women, and in the men, BMI increased with age. The men had a lower overall fat percentage (P < 0.001), but their visceral fat was higher than in the women (P < 0.001).<br />Conclusion: Our findings show a high level of obesity in fathers-to-be, which has implications not only for the men themselves but also their families. We suggest that public health interventions directed at obesity during pregnancy should include both parents-to-be.<br /> (© 2011 The Authors. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology © 2011 The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.)