Objective: Obesity is a growing epidemic. Our study concentrates on weight changes from the beginning of pregnancy to labor and how it affects progression during first and second stages of labor. Methods: Data collected prospectively from 204 singleton full term laboring patients was analyzed. The need for epidural, fetal weight, parity and the need for labor augmentation were included as coefficients. Student t-tests were used for continuous variables and chi-square tests for binary variables. Results: Statistically significant effect was observed when comparing the para 0 coefficient in all categories of weight. It was emphasized in the results that for every increase in any weight category, either by a BMI unit or a kilogram, there would be an increase in the first stage of labor. The most influential weight category was found to be BMI before pregnancy as the measurement coefficient, which included all coefficients, demonstrated statistical significance. Parity showed statistical significance for every weight category as well. It could be concluded that for every unit or kilo increase in weight, there would be prolongation of the second stage of labor amongst nulliparous women. Conclusion: Our study shows that changes in maternal weight before or during pregnancy do influence labor progression, both the first and second stages of labor. These changes might influence the way we manage laboring patients.
