Prevention of Excessive Gestational Weight Gain and Postpartum Weight Retention

Abstract

Purpose of review: The purpose of this review is to summarize the current evidence on the prevention of excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) and reduction of postpartum weight retention (PPWR) by lifestyle intervention and pharmacotherapy.

Recent findings: Recent findings demonstrate that tailored nutrition counseling and adapting certain eating patterns, supervised exercise programs aiming at achieving at least moderate level of physical activity, and interactive and monitored behavior change interventions are effective in reducing excessive GWG and PPWR. Among the pharmacologic agents, Metformin has been shown to reduce GWG. Excessive GWG and PPWR are associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Recent evidence shows that weight during gestation and the postpartum period can be significantly reduced by more frequent nutrition counseling sessions on balanced diet focusing on healthier food choices and eating patterns, supervised moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 min three times a week, and interactive behavior change interventions with regular feedback and follow-up. The benefits on weight are seen when these interventions are utilized together in a multimodality approach. Metformin is effective in preventing excessive GWG but has no impact on neonatal outcomes.

Keywords: Behavior change; Dietary counseling; Gestational weight gain; Obesity; Pharmacotherapy; Physical activity; Postpartum weight retention.