Women who are obese and give birth are also more at risk for maternal mortality during labor and delivery. The cesarean rates are often higher because labor fails to progress in a timely fashion.

Did you know that gaining more than recommended amount of weight during pregnancy also puts you at risk for being overweight several years after pregnancy?

Babies born to mothers that are overweight might also experience a number of health problems. Those most often cited by studies include an increased risk of congenital heart defects and a greater risk of neural tube defects.

The best thing you can do for yourself and health of your unborn child is maintain a healthy weight prior to becoming pregnant. If you are overweight, work with your healthcare provider or a nutritionist to come up with a sound dietary regimen that will ensure that you gain an appropriate amount of weight for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Adopting healthy habits during your pregnancy often results in a ‘carry over’ effect, meaning you are more likely to eat healthily after giving birth as well as before.

- Goldenseal

- Mugwort

- Penny Royal

- Aloe Vera

- Black Cohosh

- Blue Cohosh

- Buchers Broom

- False Unicorn

- Feverfew

- Juniper

- Lady’s Mantle

- Wormwood

Most of these herbs are known for their ability to stimulate uterus, which might lead to premature contractions or miscarriage. That said, midwives have used some herbs in last trimester to help restart a stalled labor or initiate an overdue labor. It is essential that you not try to use any of these herbs however without first consulting a qualified healthcare provider. The consequences could be devastating.