How effective is self-weighing in the setting of a lifestyle intervention to reduce gestational weight gain and postpartum weight retention?

Abstract

Self-weighing is important for weight management in general populations; however its role in optimising gestational weight gain is less clear. Our randomised trial in early pregnancy found regular self-weighing when combined with a self-management intervention, optimised weight gain at 28 weeks gestation (5.66 ± 2.6 kg vs 7.03 ± 3.56 kg, P = 0.02) and reduced postpartum weight retention (-0.57 ± 3.94 kg vs 1.48 ± 5.49 kg, P < 0.05) compared with control participants. Results highlight the importance of self-monitoring strategies during pregnancy.

Keywords: gestational weight gain; postpartum weight retention; pregnancy; self-monitoring; self-weighing.