Healthy eating is essential for pregnant women, Jacqui Clinton, Tommy's health campaigns manager, has emphasised.

This is crucial for both the health of the mother and unborn child, she explained, as all manner of difficulties can arise if a proper diet is not followed.

"Babies born to obese mothers are also more likely to have a high birthweight and future health problems associated with obesity, including cardiovascular problems and diabetes," she explained.

Ms Clinton suggested that the antenatal advice issued to new mothers needs to reflect these concerns, with health professionals also needing confidence in the guidance they give.

The Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries recently found that approximately five per cent of the UK maternity population were severely obese.

In real terms, the group estimates that this equates to around 38,478 (one in 20) pregnant women each year.