Maternal Forum 2

NURSING 1

MaternalForum 2

Proper nutrition isessential to pregnant women. As described by Bhutta&amp Black (2013) malnourishment causes neurologicalor physical defect to the fetus. Moreover, over-consumption leads toincreased BMI with complications such as diabetes mellitus. Thisessay discusses symptoms and signs that arise due to inadequateconsumption of diet during pregnancy, appropriate weight duringpregnancy and advice to prevent complications that occur due to highor low BMI.

Symptoms andSigns of Inadequate Diet Consumption

Pregnant women who consume low amount of iron are susceptible toanemia, which is characterized by symptoms such as weakness,depression, and dizziness. Other signs that are common to pregnantwomen consuming deficient diets include antepartum hemorrhage, apremature rapture of membranes and endometriosis. Poor nutritioncauses weakness to the uterus, which leads to its breakdown.Antepartum hemorrhage or genital bleeding is associated with reducedfetal weight (Bhutta&amp Black, 2013). Other signs are witnessed in thefetus, which include abnormal development of the brain or spine anddeath of the fetus in severe cases.

Recommended Weight During Pregnancy

Womenwhose BMI is 18.5-24.9 their weight gain should be between 22-35pounds. Women who are underweight with a BMI of below 18.5 theirweight gain should not exceed 28-40lbs. Moreover, pregnant women whoare overweight should gain weight of between 15-25lbs.

Patients Complexities Due to BMI

PatentK.L with a BMI of 17.9 before pregnancy is likely to experienceanemia and premature membrane rapture. On the other hand, patient L.Mwith a pre-pregnancy BMI of 29 is susceptible to postpartum anemia,high chances of cesarean delivery and gestational diabetes mellitusthat are associated with obesity.

Advice to Patients K.L and M.L

PatientK.L with low BMI of 17.9 should increase her diet consumption offoods containing calcium such as oranges. Also, patient K.L shouldincrease the intake of diets containing iron such as lean beef andgreen leaves. Patient K.L should take foods rich in vitamins suchfruits daily. Patient L.M should consume whole foods that are low incalories. In addition, she should engage in exercises regularly. Byobserving proper diet, pregnant women are able to control theirweight, and reduce complications during pregnancy.

Reference

Bhutta, Z.A., &amp Black, R. E. (2013). Global maternal, newborn, and childhealth—so near and yet so far.&nbspNewEngland Journal of Medicine,&nbsp369(23),2226-2235.