Shared decision making and labor management in parturients

Overweight and obesity are risk factors for several labor and postpartum complications, including macrosomia, shoulder dystocia, and cesarean delivery. Anesthesia and surgical intervention also present unique challenges, but research has provided new insights on how to reduce complications in these two areas. Providers can use currently available evidence to counsel patients, and this conversation should begin during the prenatal period. Further research is needed to address the gaps in our understanding of the most effective methods of delivery and postpartum care for overweight and obese women.