A Postpartum Weight Loss-focused Stepped-care Intervention in a Military Population: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Postpartum weight retention poses health risks for civilian and military women.
• Effective weight management strategies are needed for the military population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the "Moms Fit 2 Fight" intervention for pregnant and postpartum military women.
• To assess the impact of a stepped-care weight management intervention on postpartum weight retention.

Main Methods:

• 430 active duty women and TRICARE beneficiaries were randomized into three groups: gestational weight gain only, postpartum weight loss only, or combined intervention.
• Primary outcome was postpartum weight retention at 6 months, analyzed via intent-to-treat.

Main Results:

• Participants in the postpartum weight loss intervention retained marginally less weight (1.31 kg) versus the gestational weight gain only group (2.39 kg; p = .07).
• No significant association was found between covariates (e.g., breastfeeding) and weight retention.
• 48.1% of participants in the postpartum weight loss intervention returned to pre-pregnancy weight, with no significant difference compared to the gestational weight gain only group.

Conclusions:

• A behavioral intervention targeting diet and physical activity during the postpartum period showed a trend for reduced postpartum weight retention.
• The "Moms Fit 2 Fight" intervention may offer a viable approach for managing weight in military populations.