A Gap Analysis of Effective Interventions for Postpartum Weight Loss in Obese New Mothers [163]

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In Los Angeles County, 46% of postpartum women are overweight or obese. Unhealthy preconception weight increases the likelihood of retaining weight postpartum, but little is known about weight management interventions immediately postpartum. Choose Health LA Moms aims to provide education, resources, and support for postpartum weight management. This study highlights areas of focus needed in development of the program. METHODS: The 2012 Los Angeles Mommy and Baby Survey assessed 6,843 women before, during, and shortly after their most recent pregnancy. Data collected included demographics, geographic region, prepregnancy body mass index, breastfeeding status, and exercise during pregnancy. RESULTS:In Los Angeles County, 45.7% of women were overweight or obese preconception, 91.2% breastfed, and 79.1% exercised during pregnancy. Of eight total regions, region 6 and region 1 had the highest rates of being overweight or obese preconception (58.4% and 55.4%, respectively), the lowest rates of breastfeeding (84.4% and 88.2%), and among the lowest rates of exercising during pregnancy (75.5% and 73.2%). Latina and African American mothers had the highest overall rates of preconception obesity (57.4% and 56.8%, respectively) and the lowest rates of breastfeeding (89.3% and 84.2%). African American women had the lowest rate of exercising during pregnancy (72.1%). CONCLUSION: There is an inverse correlation between maternal obesity and breastfeeding as well as between maternal obesity and exercising during pregnancy. Postpartum obese women may require a targeted program that uses evidence-based interventions for weight loss such as breastfeeding and walking.