Abstract
Perception of obesity-related risk and challenges in perinatal care: a cross-sectional study of women and healthcare providers
Department of Obstetric and Gynaecological Nursing, Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
Nursing Problems 2026; 34 (2): 85-95
Introduction
Obesity among women of reproductive age represents one of the most serious challenges in modern obstetric care, due to its increasing prevalence and adverse effects on maternal and child health. Despite well-documented clinical complications, limited evidence exists regarding the perception of obesity-related risk among women and medical staff. The aim of this study was twofold: to assess the perception of risk associated with obesity in obstetric care and its relationship with women’s level of self-esteem, and to identify the challenges and key competencies of healthcare staff in caring for patients with obesity.
Material and methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to June 2025 among 200 women of reproductive age and 200 healthcare workers, in accordance with STROBE guidelines. Data were collected via an original questionnaire and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES). Statistical analyses (Statistica 13.3) included frequency analysis, chi-square (²) tests, and ANOVA with partial eta-squared (²p) effect size. The significance level was set at = 0.05.
Results
Among women, no significant associations were found between body mass index (BMI) and the perception of organizational aspects of childbirth, clinical risks, or postpartum challenges (all p > 0.05). The sole exception concerned shoulder dystocia, which women with obesity attributed to excessive weight more frequently than their normal-weight counterparts (41.9% vs. 15.8%, p = 0.006). Self-esteem levels were comparable across all BMI categories (p = 0.163). In contrast, healthcare professionals demonstrated high awareness of obesity-related complications, with the majority acknowledging more difficult labor management (82.5%), increased risk of cesarean section (86.0%), perineal tears (69.5%), and wound healing difficulties (87.0% after episiotomy and 92.0% after cesarean section), all with p < 0.001.
Conclusions
A clear discrepancy exists between women’s limited risk perception and staff’s high awareness of obesity-related complications. Educational initiatives for women and staff training in both clinical and communication competencies are essential to ensure non-stigmatizing, patient-centered care.
Keywords
obesity, perinatal care, obstetric care, risk perception, healthcare professionals, patient-centered care
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