Implementation and Evaluation of a Weight Management Programme for Overweight or Obese Pregnant Women: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Objectives: Obesity is a major health concern, particularly among women of reproductive age. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a psychosocial-based intervention on weight management and pregnancy outcomes in overweight or obese pregnant women.

Methods: This randomised controlled trial included overweight or obese pregnant women from healthcare centres affiliated with Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Ahvaz, Iran and was conducted from June to December 2023. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention or control group. The intervention group received a comprehensive weight management programme during pregnancy, while the control group received standard prenatal care.

Results: A total of 202 women participated in this study. The intervention helped improve appropriate weight gain, healthier food choices (P < 0.001), and increased physical activity. In overweight women, 29.3% of the intervention group and 20.6% of the control group achieved normal weight gain. Among obese women, 39.3% in the intervention group and 37% in the control group reached the recommended weight gain. Physical activity scores improved significantly in both groups, with the intervention group showing greater changes (P = 0.0001). However, there were no significant differences in pregnancy outcomes, including gestational diabetes (P = 0.533), preeclampsia (P = 0.948), and caesarean section rates (P = 0.489).

Conclusion: The psychosocial-based intervention used in this study positively impacted nutritional behaviour and physical activity but did not significantly reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes. More comprehensive, personalised and long-term interventions are recommended.