An excessive increase in body mass index (BMI) during pregnancy is a serious concern, because it can lead to childbirth complications. Pregnant women should try to avoid becoming overweight, with an ideal body mass index increase of about 12-14 kilograms only. If the increase is higher than this level, it is associated with obesity. Obesity can cause a condition called pelvic organ prolapse. Many women have this condition following childbirth, but the percentage varies between 25% to 50%. Fatter pregnant women have a higher risk of developing the condition.
Pelvic organ prolapse is a painful condition, but many women don't consider it to be huge concern. However, it can create other problems such as urinary incontinence. The condition occurs most frequently in women over the age of 45, but younger women can suffer from the problem as well, usually those who deliver a baby in their late 30's.