Factors Influencing Desired Postnatal Weight Loss in Women after Birth

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify factors influencing desired postnatal weight loss in women after birth. METHODS: With correlational survey design, 191women of the study participants completed questionnaires on their desired postnatal weight loss and related factors, and body and health concerns during their hospitalization after birth. Data were collected from February to May, 2011. Data were analyzed using t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple linear regression. RESULTS: The women's gestational weight gain, pre-pregnant BMI, body concerns, expected time to reach the desired weight after birth and health concerns were identified as factors influencing desired postnatal weight loss in women after birth. The model explained 68% of the variance. CONCLUSION: Results suggest that nurses in women's health care should consider women's gestational weight, pre-pregnant BMI and their body concerns, health concerns and expected time to reach the desired weight after birth when developing weight management program for women after birth.

Keywords

• postnatal
• weight loss
• body
• health