BACKGROUND
Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) has public health implications including preterm birth, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and cesarean delivery. In an effort to mitigate adverse consequences of excessive GWG, this study tests a health intervention that includes enhancements to improve knowledge and awareness of appropriate GWG, and patient-centered nutritional counseling to promote appropriate GWG.
OBJECTIVE
The primary objective of the study was to increase the proportion of women who are managing their GWG as recommended by the IOM.4,5
METHODS
This randomized controlled trial was conducted at Geisinger in Pennsylvania where excessive GWG is common among women with pre-conception obesity. Eligible, consenting participants with pre-pregnancy body mass index >30.0 kg/m2 were randomized (1:1) to: 1) Usual Care: usual written educational materials and counseling by an obstetric care provider or 2) Enhanced Care: Usual Care plus a) a personalized letter from a physician detailing appropriate GWG, b) exposure to individualized GWG chart in the electronic health record via the patient portal, and c) a consult with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and follow-up via tele-health counseling (10-20 mins/1-2 weeks) for the duration of the pregnancy.
RESULTS
The primary outcome was the proportion of women that gain less than 20 pounds over the course of the pregnancy. Secondary outcomes include knowledge, expectations, and attitude about pregnancy weight gain; increased self-efficacy for ability to eat healthy and being physically active to manage weight; and eating behavior. Potential moderators that will be explored include sleep, perceived stress, perceived involvement in care, and household food security. Data collection has been completed as of November 2019.
CONCLUSIONS
As GWG care was initiated for mothers with pre-pregnancy BMI >30 kg/m2 within the first and second trimesters, the intervention may have the additional benefit of reducing other adverse pregnancy outcomes including the incidence of gestational diabetes due to healthier rates of GWG. In addition to assessing appropriate GWG, this project will assess eating habits, physical activity, GWG attitudes, sleep quality, and psychological measures, all of which are associated with GWG. Exploratory mediators including perceived stress and food insecurity will also be evaluated.
CLINICALTRIAL
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02963428
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