These risks are increased with maternal
diabetes, thus requiring careful monitoring
throughout pregnancy. The relationship
between maternal obesity and
long-term effects on the child remains
conflicted. Some studies have reported
that children of obese mothers are more
likely to be obese, while others have
found only a small relationship. It does
appear that extreme maternal obesity
(BMI > 40) and metabolic disorders such
as diabetes result in long-term effects in
the child. Childbirth professionals have
the opportunity to intervene through prepregnancy
planning and careful monitoring
throughout the pregnancy.