Summarizing recommendations to eliminate weight stigma in prenatal health care settings: A scoping review

Abstract

ObjectiveAs the prevalence of obesity increases, more women are at risk of potentially experiencing weight stigma in prenatal health care settings. The objective of this scoping review was to summarize the primary literature assessing potential causes of weight stigma in prenatal health care settings and synthesize recommendations for health care providers to improve clinical practice. MethodsA search strategy was developed combining the terms pregnancy, weight stigma, obesity, and prenatal care. A systematic search was completed in the following databases: Medline, EMBASE, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Opengrey, and Proquest. ResultsEighteen resources were included in this review, of which 17 were qualitative, and one was a mixed-methods study design. Weight stigma occurred in prenatal health care settings when providers: avoided weight-related discussions, assumed lifestyle behaviors, and had poor communication when discussing risks associated with obesity. Recommendations to prevent weight stigma included: offering sensitivity training to discuss obesity during pregnancy, implementing a patient-centred approach, including evaluating individual health behaviors, and providing educational resources to patients explaining potential risks and referrals. ConclusionThis review summarizes recommendations to eliminate weight stigma in prenatal health care settings. Practice implicationsThese recommendations can be implemented in clinical practice and can improve the delivery of prenatal care.