The Prospective Applications of Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis in Postpartum Women

Abstract

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) has a wide range of applications. For over 25 years, it has primarily been utilized for assessing body composition. This method is non-invasive, portable, widely available, cost-effective, and user-friendly, offering the advantage of repeatability and minimal dependence on patient cooperation. BIA measures the impedance of the whole body, specifically the body's resistance to alternating current. In postpartum women, who undergo significant physiological changes following childbirth, BIA can serve as a valuable diagnostic and monitoring tool. It is commonly employed to track body weight and fat reduction, and it facilitates the differentiation of fat mass, muscle mass, and body water content. This enables the customization of nutritional plans and the development of individualized training regimens tailored to the patient's health status. Additionally, BIA aids in the assessment of hydration status, which is particularly critical during the postpartum period when women often experience fluid retention. Furthermore, optimal hydration is essential for lactation and maintaining favorable conditions for breastfeeding. BIA is also invaluable for evaluating nutritional status, micronutrient balance, and preventing both overweight and malnutrition. Moreover, BIA supports physical recovery by monitoring muscle mass, thereby assisting in the assessment of pelvic floor muscle regeneration following childbirth.

Keywords: bioelectrical impedance; body composition; breastfeeding; hydration; postpartum; puerperium.

Figure 1

Body composition assessment using a four-electrode BIA device.

Figure 2

Study selection for bioelectrical impedance as a way to monitor changes in the body composition of women in postpartum.

Figure 3

Study selection for bioelectrical impedance and assessment of hydration status in women in puerperium.

Figure 4

Study selection for sufficiency of bioelectrical impedance in monitoring postpartum complications—diagnosis of edema, electrolyte imbalances, infections, and preeclampsia.

Figure 5

Study selection for application of bioelectrical impedance in the rehabilitation of postpartum women.

Figure 6

Water management in non-pregnant, pregnant and breastfeeding women.