Obesity and associated reproductive conditions in women

Obesity is a worldwide public health problem and has extensive adverse effects on mental and physical health. In women of reproductive age, obesity additionally lowers pregnancy chances and increases the rate of pregnancy complications. Pregnancy complications can have negative effects on their offspring and children of obese mothers have a high risk of becoming obese themselves. Preconception lifestyle interventions could lower the negative effects of obesity on women’s health and their pregnancy, because women with a wish to conceive might be more motivated to change their lifestyle. Part one of this dissertation describes studies evaluating the effects of a preconception lifestyle intervention on cardiometabolic health, mental well-being, sexual function and quality of life, with a short and long-term perspective. Part two of this dissertation comprises three systematic reviews that incorporate all available evidence on the effect of obesity, obesity-associated reproductive diseases (polycystic ovary syndrome and gestational diabetes) and their treatment on future health of women and their children.