Abstract: Background: Postpartum weight retention is a major contributor to the long term obesity and related health problems in women, Despite being a critical period for health promotion, postpartum phase is often neglected in routine maternal care. Addressing lifestyle practices, mental health, sociocultural factors through comprehensive postpartum interventions can improve maternal health outcomes and long term well being.
Objectives: This study aims to estimate the prevalence of postpartum weight retention and assess its association with lifestyle, psychosocial, dietary, sociodemographic factors as well as weight management interventions among postpartum women in Chennai.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 women, 6 months to 1 year postpartum, attending primary health centres in Chennai between June and August 2025. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic details, obstetric history, sleep, diet, physical activity, psychosocial perceptions, and weight loss intentions. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, and associations were analysed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests.
Results: The prevalence of PPWR was high (79%). Significant associations were observed with shorter sleep duration, household and childcare responsibilities, mismatched family eating habits, limited dietary awareness, bodyweight perception, and occupation. Weight loss intentions were strongly influenced by confidence, media exposure, social comparison, physical activity, dietary efforts, and motivation to initiate lifestyle changes.
Conclusion: Postpartum weight retention is common and influenced by modifiable behavioural and psychosocial factors. The postpartum period is a key opportunity for preventing long term obesity and cardiometabolic risk by integrating structured lifestyle and psychosocial counselling into routine maternal care.
Keywords: Postpartum weight retention (PPWR); Maternal health; Psychosocial determinants; Dietary behaviours; Physical activity; Body image perception; Urban primary health centres; Public health intervention; Obesity prevention; Cardiometabolic risk.
Title: Postpartum Weight Retention and Weight Loss Intentions among Women Attending an Urban Primary Health Centre in Chennai: A Cross-Sectional Study
Author: M.H.Akshaya, N.Alagusankar, Dr. Sathishkumar, Dr.Arunmurugan
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 138-144
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 01-June-2026
