Work

Examining Interpregnancy Weight Change Across a Birthing Population in Aotearoa, New Zealand

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Introduction Inter‐pregnancy weight change (IPWC) has been linked to adverse outcomes in subsequent pregnancies. No studies have examined IPWC in Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ). This study aims to 1. Examine the distribution of IPWC in a birthing population in AoNZ and 2. Investigate IPWC across priority populations identified by the Perinatal and Maternal Mortality Review Committee (PMMRC). Methods This retrospective cohort study in AoNZ, included people who birthed their first two singleton pregnancies between 2016 and 2021. IPWC was calculated as the difference in pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and divided into four categories: 1. Interpregnancy weight loss (IPWL) (BMI reduction of > 1 kg/m 2 ) no change in weight (NC) (BMI change −1–0.9 kg/m 2 ); moderate interpregnancy weight gain: (BMI increase 1–3 kg/m 2 ) and increased IPWG (BMI increase > 3 kg/m 2 ). Results The study cohort ( n = 856) had a mean IPWC of 1.13 kg/m 2 (SD 3.5). 49.9% ( n = 427) experienced a BMI increase (> 1 kg/m 2 ). IPWC rates observed across categories: IPWL: 167 (19.5%); NC 262 (30.6%); IPWG: 427 (49.9%) (moderate IPWG: 235 [27.5%] and increased IPWG: 192 [22.4%]). IPWC varied by ethnicity, socioeconomic deprivation, age, and BMI in the index pregnancy; in a multiple regression model with these variables, increasing age and BMI in the index pregnancy were associated with lower IPWC. Discussion 22.4% of the cohort experienced IPWG at a level associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. Elevated rates of increased IPWG were observed in priority birthing populations, consistent with populations highlighted by the PMMRC. Further research is required to understand the impact of IPWC in AoNZ birthing populations.

Source: Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

DOI: 10.1111/ajo.70037

Authors: Emma Le Lievre, Per Kempe, Robin Cronin, Alice Hyun Min Kim, Rosemary Hall

Institutions: University of Otago, University of Auckland, Counties Manukau District Health Board

Language: English

Topic: Gestational Diabetes Research and Management

Subfield: Obstetrics and Gynecology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,920