New digital initiative launched to support pregnant women in Slagelse with obesity through Healthy Pregnancy app

Obesity during pregnancy can have significant consequences for both mother and child. A higher BMI increases the risk of developing gestational diabetes, experiencing pregnancy-induced hypertension, or excessive bleeding during childbirth. To address these issues, a new digital initiative aims to support nearly 500 pregnant women in adopting healthier dietary and exercise habits through an app.

The project, named “Healthy Pregnancy,” targets women with a BMI of 25 or higher and offers a digital tool to help them achieve appropriate weight gain during pregnancy, as explained by midwife and project leader Mette Kabell. Almost 50% of pregnant women in Slagelse have a BMI of 25 or above.

The app features numerous videos and content from midwives, doctors, and health professionals, providing vital information and exercise routines. Kabell emphasizes the importance of assisting heavier pregnant women in managing their weight to reduce the risk of complications during the pregnancy and delivery.

Helle Mogensen, a participant in the app’s pilot project in 2022, found immense value in the program. With a BMI above 25, she reported learning how to maintain a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy and experienced no weight gain throughout. Recent data reveals that 40% of pregnant women in Denmark have a BMI above 25, highlighting the growing problem of obesity in this demographic.

Obstetrician Bjarke Lund Sørensen notes that minimizing weight gain during pregnancy is crucial due to associated complications. He stresses that the app should be viewed as a supportive and voluntary option for women seeking assistance, aiming to guide them toward simple lifestyle changes without judgment.