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Pregnancy Weight Gain, Postpartum Weight Retention, and Obesity

  • Obesity + Diet (G Rao, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Obesity is a significant health problem associated with specific risks during pregnancy. Overweight and obese women are at increased risk for gaining weight in excess of pregnancy weight gain guidelines. Excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG) is associated with postpartum weight retention (PPWR) and can negatively impact the health of developing offspring, including increasing the risk of future obesity and diabetes. For all women, pregnancy may serve as an inciting factor that leads to increased body weight 15 to 20 years postpartum. Decreased exercise, increased consumption of unhealthy foods, and smoking cessation are associated with EGWG while increased exercise and breastfeeding are associated with reduced PPWR. A variety of interventions in limited settings have been successful at reducing EGWG and promoting postpartum weight loss. More research is needed on optimal ways to educate women about weight gain recommendations and incorporate interventions into routine care to improve maternal and child outcomes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Ambulatory Primary Care Innovations Group (APCIG), NorthShore University HealthSystem, 1001 University Place, Evanston, IL, 60201, USA

    Jennifer K. Bello, Victoria Bauer & Anthony Solomonides

  2. Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, 2650 Ridge Avenue, Walgreen’s Building, Suite 1507, Evanston, IL, 60201, USA

    Beth A. Plunkett

  3. Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, 924 E 57th St. #104, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA

    Lindsay Poston

  4. Maternal Fetal Medicine of SWFL, NCH Healthcare System, 16261 Bass Rd #100, Ft Myers, FL, 33908, USA

    Loraine Endres

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  1. Jennifer K. Bello
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  2. Victoria Bauer
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  3. Beth A. Plunkett
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Correspondence to Jennifer K. Bello.

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Jennifer K. Bello, Victoria Bauer, Beth A. Plunkett, Lindsay Poston, Anthony Solomonides and Loraine Endres have no disclosures to report.

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Bello, J.K., Bauer, V., Plunkett, B.A. et al. Pregnancy Weight Gain, Postpartum Weight Retention, and Obesity. Curr Cardiovasc Risk Rep 10, 4 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12170-016-0483-8

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