WEDNESDAY, 23 MARCH, 2016

NHS Tayside supports healthy weight before pregnancy

NHS Tayside is supporting Dundee women to have a healthy weight before they become pregnant.

There are a number of risks associated with obesity in pregnancy such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes and also an increased possibility of having a miscarriage or stillbirth. Evidence shows obesity in pregnancy can increase the likelihood of obesity in children.

Carol Barnett, Maternal and Infant Nutrition Programme Manager, NHS Tayside said, “Entering pregnancy with a healthy weight is one of the best things a woman can do for her baby.

“Since 2010 midwives in Tayside have been delivering the ‘optiMum’ programme which supports obese pregnant women, to make healthier lifestyle choices throughout their pregnancy. Midwives and health visitors also signpost them to free weight management classes after their babies are born.

“We are now looking to support women who are planning a pregnancy by helping them to lose weight before they become pregnant by offering free places on a local weight management programme.

“Women who wish to access this service must be between 16-45years, live in the Dundee postcode area DD4, have a BMI of 30 or more and be planning a pregnancy.”

Call 0345 6027068 and quote WWRSO92 for information on this FREE 12-week Weight Watchers programme.

Notes to editors:

To work out your BMI - divide your weight in kilograms (kg) by your height in metres (m). Then divide the answer by your height again to get your BMI.

For example:

If you weigh 95kg and you are 1.65m tall: dividing 95 by 1.65 the answer is 57, then divide 57.5 by 1.65 the answer is 34.9 which is your BMI.

Contact:

Anna Michie

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 424138