Does Dietary and Lifestyle Counseling Prevent Excessive Weight Gain During Pregnancy? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Does Dietary and Lifestyle Counseling Prevent Excessive Weight Gain During Pregnancy? A Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this study is to determine if an organized, consistent program of dietary and lifestyle counseling will prevent excessive gestational weight gain.

Excessive gestational weight gain is common with about one third of women gaining more weight in pregnancy than is recommended. Unfortunately, the prevalence of excessive gestational weight gain is increasing. Gestational weight gain greater than that recommended by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) is associated with increased risk of gestational complications (hypertension, diabetes, and preeclampsia), infant macrosomia, and complications in delivery including increased risk of cesarean delivery. Currently, there is no evidence-based prenatal counseling protocol available to prevent excessive gestational weight gain. We hypothesize that consistent counseling on appropriate pregnancy diet, weight gain, and the potential complications of excessive gestational weight gain will result in fewer women gaining above the IOM recommendations.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Establish prenatal care at 6 - 16 weeks gestation
2. 18-49 years of age
3. Receive their entire prenatal care at the Resident Obstetrics Clinic
4. English and/or Spanish speaking
5. Singleton gestation.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Establish prenatal care >16 weeks gestation
2. Non-English or non-Spanish speaking
3. Multiple gestation pregnancy
4. BMI > 40
5. Preexisting diabetes, untreated thyroid disease, or hypertension requiring medication or other medical conditions that might affect body weight
6. Delivery at institution other than CMC-Main
7. Pregnancy ending in a premature delivery (< 37 weeks)
8. Limited prenatal care (<4 visits)