The lifestyle modification project: limiting pregnancy weight gain in obese women

Abstract

Objective: To assess the impact of a group lifestyle intervention on gestational weight gain in a cohort of obese pregnant women.

Methods: A cohort study comparing 60 pregnant women enrolled in an educational intervention with controls from the same institution who receive routine prenatal care. Subjects were matched with controls by pre-pregnancy body mass index, parity and ethnicity. Subjects participated in group and individual counseling sessions focused on diet, exercise and weight goals. The primary outcome was gestational weight gain.

Results: A greater number of patients in the intervention group met the Institute of Medicine weight gain recommendations (35 versus 24, p = 0.0446). Mean gestational weight gain of participants was lower than the control group, but this was not statistically significant. Number of sessions attended was associated with a decrease in total weight gained.

Conclusion: Educational interventions targeting obese pregnant women may be an effective way to limit gestational weight gain. Participation in educational sessions likely influences total weight gain.

• Behavior modification
• gestational weight gain
• obesity

Declaration of interest

The Lifestyle Modification Program was funded by a March of Dimes chapter grant and by Saving Mothers (www.savingmothers.org).