Description
BackgroundPostpartum weight retention (0.5–3kg) is common, and nearly 25% of women gain ≥3kg between their first and second pregnancy. This affects their health and psychological wellbeing. Women who are overweight are more likely to have anxiety or depression. Research shows that those who return to pre-pregnancy weight within six months have fewer physical and mental health issues. Supporting women in a healthy lifestyle and making them feel good about themselves after pregnancy is key to prevention. However, adequate support is currently lacking.
Aims and objectives
The aim of current PPIE activities was to gather input on:
1) Support for post-partum weight management;
2) Barriers and facilitators to a healthy weight;
3) Perspectives on digital support approaches.
Method
Twelve PPIE members were recruited through an online advertisement distributed by the NHS trust. Input was gathered through eight semi-structured interviews (online and in-person) and an online focus group with four mothers. The think-aloud method was used for feedback on a digital self-management program.
Results
Most mothers struggled with postpartum weight management and lacked support. They highlighted facilitators (e.g., breastfeeding) and barriers (e.g., age) to maintaining a healthy weight. A shift in terminology from weight to lifestyle management (when and where preferred) was recommended, thereby acknowledging the topic’s sensitivity and the role of mental health. Mothers provided feedback on a digital self-management program, emphasizing the need for tailored content (e.g., postpartum exercises, coping with baby blues) and improved engagement through icons, rewards, and regular updates. PPIE members also stressed considering outcomes like body image alongside BMI.
Conclusions
PPI members’ input support a holistic digital approach to postpartum weight management and mental health. Efforts are currently underway to ensure more diverse PPIE input through community organizations. Future research will adopt a participatory approach, involving PPIE members in co-creating the digital intervention
| Period | 26 Aug 2025 |
|---|---|
| Event title | Society for Reproductive and Infant Psychology (SRIP) international conference : 45th Annual Conference |
| Event type | Conference |
| Conference number | 45 |
| Location | Liverpool, United KingdomShow on map |
| Degree of Recognition | International |