Assignment: Weight Status and Pregnancy
Assignment: Weight Status and Pregnancy
Permalink:
Case Studies Chapter 15
Case Study: Weight Status and Pregnancy
Sadie is a 37-year-old teacher in her 20th week of pregnancy. She is 68 inches tall and weighs 195 pounds. Her pre-pregnancy weight was 180 pounds. She gained 50 pounds with her first pregnancy two years ago. Her doctor has recommended that she limit her weight gain this pregnancy. She likes to swim but has not been exercising regularly since she found out she was pregnant. She has had morning sickness through much of this pregnancy and says that she feels better when she eats starchy foods such as bread, potato chips, and pasta. She complains of recent problems with constipation and is seeking ways to relieve this discomfort.
1. Calculate Sadie’s body mass index (BMI) based on her pre-pregnancy weight. Based on her weight status and information in Table 15-1, how much weight is Sadie recommended to gain during her pregnancy?
2. Using the charts in Figure 15-6, evaluate Sadie’s weight gain at this point in her pregnancy. How does it compare to what is recommended?
3. What medical complications of pregnancy are associated with being overweight or obese? Describe risks for the mother and the infant.
4. What would you tell Sadie about the benefits of water exercises during pregnancy? What precautions would you give her about other water-related activities during pregnancy? Explain.
5. What are some strategies presented in this chapter that would help alleviate Sadie’s constipation as well as improve her nutritional status during this pregnancy?
