Postpartum Maternal Weight Changes: Implications for Military Women

摘要

More than half of the study group retained more than 2kg weight at about a year postpartum. One in 5 who began pregnancy normal weight became overweight (BMI>25). Despite physical training and emphasis on meeting weight standards, weight retention was as common among active duty women as among military dependents. Multivariate analysis suggested that high level of maternal weight gain during pregnancy, history of weight cycling, postpartum depression, and financial insecurity were associated with increased weight after birth. Results were inconsistent and somewhat difficult to interpret for 'healthy' dieting and physical activity, perhaps because women who have the most trouble losing weight are also those who may most consistently attempt to increase exercise and reduce food intake.