Sociodemographic factors associated with an inadequate gestational weight gain in women from Valencia (Spain)

Abstract

Background and Objectives Gestational Weight Gain (GWG) has been shown to influence the outcome of pregnancies, increasing morbidity in mothers and their offspring. Our objective is to evaluate the association of GWG with sociodemographic factors such as maternal age, Body Mass Index (BMI), level of studies and social class. Methods This study involves the analysis of data obtained from 787 pregnant women from the province of Valencia (Spain) between February 2004 and July 2005. Data was attained through surveys performed by trained personal on weeks 12th and 32nd of the pregnancy and using maternal and delivery clinical records. The analysis were performed using a chi-square test and binary logistic regressions (simple and multivariate). Results High values of BMI are associated with an increased risk of excessive GWG. A significant sociodemographic gradient can be seen in GWG: a lower level of studies is associated with a higher risk of excessive GWG (p=0.031). Also, smoking is a risk factor to the development of insufficient GWG. On the other hand, parity shows a protective effect against excessive GWG. Conclusions A decrease of the sociodemographic gradient existent would be beneficial, reducing morbidity for mothers and offspring. Furthermore, interventions promoting better life habits such as no smoking during pregnancy or healthier BMI at the start of it could also be positive for their health and their future.