Abstract

1. Abstract

1.1. Objective: To assess the efficacy of a theory-based lifestyle counselling intervention sessions in overweight and obese women for the prevention of excessive pregnancy weight gain and indorse postpartum weight loss.
1.2. Methods: Participants with singleton pregnancy at a 12th week of gestation, 18–40 years and BMI ≥ 25 ≤ 40 kg/m2 were included. The pregnant women were randomized to intervention and control group. Three face-to-face lifestyle counselling sessions was attended during the pregnancy (at 12-16, 16-20 and 30-34 weeks) and one after delivery at 6-8 weeks’ postpartum stage by the intervention group participants. While, the control group received routine prenatal care. The guidelines of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) were used for the gestational weight gain assessment.