Identifying risk factors for postpartum weight retention

The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for postpartum weight retention in mothers 6 to 12 months postpartum. A questionnaire was developed and participants were recruited from community pregnancy centers and private pediatric health care offices.;A total of 78 questionnaires were returned to the investigator. Distribution of data were reported using frequency of response and means with standard deviations.;One of the most common risk factors for weight retention was a lack of formal nutrition education during pregnancy. Other factors included less dietary control when not employed, the need for a large support system, depression, lack of instruction on how to lose pregnancy weight, and smoking. Also, reduced exercise as a result of too little time, decreased energy, and lack of childcare were other risk factors reported by the participants. Additional risk factors were identified throughout various categories.