The myths of a 'high risk' high bmi pregnancy with Dr Alice Keely aka The Heavyweight Midwife

The myths of a 'high risk' high bmi pregnancy - what the data says and what is just fear mongering in medical environments and what you can do about itIf you've ever been told you're “high-risk” in pregnancy just because of your BMI, or you've felt dismissed or judged in fertility or maternity care, this episode is for you.This week, I’m joined by guest expert The Heavyweight Midwife, AKA Dr Alice Keely who helps plus size women have a happier and more empowered journey to parenthood. She has been a plus size specialist midwife since 2007 and she completed her PhD in women’s experiences of stigma in plus size pregnancy care. Through her research, her advocacy, and her online courses and coaching, Alice works to get the reassurance out there that having a plus size pregnancy does not mean you have a high risk pregnancy.Together, we unpack the myths, the fear-mongering, and the reality of what the data actually says about plus-size pregnancy.Whether you're trying to conceive, preparing for fertility treatment, or already pregnant, this is a must-listen conversation that will leave you feeling more informed, empowered, and less alone.In this episode, we cover:What the term “high-risk” actually means and how it's often misapplied to plus-size pregnanciesWhy BMI is an unreliable metric for risk in pregnancyHow fat bias shows up in fertility and maternity care (and the harm it causes)The real evidence around high bmis for plus-size pregnanciesWhat respectful, supportive care should look like and how to advocate for itSpecific challenges (and opportunities) for plus-size people navigating fertility treatment or IVFWhy the label 'high-risk' should never be a reason for shame or poor quality careConnect with Dr Alice Keely:Community membership - theheavyweightmidwife.com TikTok & instagram - @theheavyweightmidwifeWant to learn more about going abroad for fertility treatment? Watch this free masterclass: yourivfabroad.co.uk/freemasterclassFREE 15 minute video call - ready to take the next step and want to discuss the services Emma offers at home or abroad?:  calendly.com/yourivfabroad/15minYour IVF abroad planner/journal  - Keep everything organised and in one place and document your journey and feelings along the way. Find out more/buy one here:yourivfabroad.co.uk/shop