Women's health

Given by David barker by 1990. Through his cohort studies he states that there is a direct link between a low birth weight baby and preterm baby with Coronary heart disease, Hypertension and non insulin dependent diabetes mallitus in adulthood. This is mainly due to poor Nutrition of the mother before and during pregnancy. The mother should have modifications in health and Nutrition before and during pregnancy and mode of delivery (institutional delivery should be preferred). This will prevent or reduce the complications in baby and treatment of Malnutrition and Metabolic Syndrome is done. 

  Low birth weight is defined as weight of new born less than 2500gm, regardless of gestational age . Causes: Premature birth - Born early - Before 37 weeks of pregnancy - premature baby has less time in mother's womb (uterus) to grow and gain weight. Much of the baby's weight is gained during the last week of pregnancy. Intrauterine growth retardation -   Baby do not grow well during the pregnancy- due to problem with: Placenta Mother's health Baby's health Baby can be: Full term- B orn  on 37-41 week of pregnancy. These babies may be physically mature but small. Premature-  These babies are both very small and immature. Risk factors for LBW: Infections during pregnancy Not gaining enough weight during pregnancy Previous pregnancy with the low birth weight baby Smoking Alcohol or drug use Age less than 17 or more than 35 Diagnosis of LBW: Mother's weight gain during pregnancy Fundal height  Ultrasound- more accurate Bab