Obesity in pregnancy ‘contributing to avoidable harm’ as doctors issue new warning

Doctors have warned that rising obesity rates among pregnant women are endangering both mothers and babies.

Over a quarter of pregnant women in the UK are now classified as obese.

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has urged that this be "recognised as an urgent and growing public health challenge".

Obesity is “contributing to avoidable harm” while also putting increased pressure on NHS maternity services, according to the new report.

The college said there must be “bold, joined-up action” from food policy, education and healthcare to better prevent obesity in general.

The “stigamatisation” of women’s weight also “remains an issue” and should be replaced by non-judgmental care before, during and after pregnancy, experts said.

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Source: The Independent, 4 February 2026