Changes in abdominal adipose tissues and ectopic fat depots during pregnancy are dissociated from gestational weight gain
Authors' conclusion
This study demonstrates dynamic changes in abdominal fat depots during pregnancy in women with overweight/obesity. The observed reduction in VAT and SAT during pregnancy and the association of GWG with SAT suggest that weight gain during pregnancy may be less metabolically harmful than outside pregnancy. Future research should investigate the mechanisms and long-term effects on maternal and child health.
Study context
- Population
- Pregnant women with overweight/obesity
- Participants
- 119 women
- Primary endpoint
- Changes in abdominal adipose tissue (SAT, VAT) and ectopic fat (liver, muscle) on MRI and their associations with GWG
- Follow-up
- GW 15, GW 32 and around birth
Methodological detailsMRI at gestational week (GW) 15, GW 32 and around birth; linear mixed models and multivariable linear regression
- MRI at GW 15, GW 32 and around birth; linear mixed models and multivariable linear regression
Primary result
As reported in the abstract
GW 15 to GW 32 to birth
- VAT and SAT decreased from GW 15 to GW 32 but rebounded at birth; final levels lower than at GW 15
- Liver fat and muscle fat did not change significantly
- Gestational weight gain (GWG) positively associated with changes in SAT but not with those in VAT, liver fat or muscle fat
- Adjusted for prepregnancy BMI, parity and randomization
Original publication
Changes in abdominal adipose tissues and ectopic fat depots during pregnancy are dissociated from gestational weight gain. Obesity (Silver Spring). Published 3 January 2025. doi:10.
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