The Development of a Postpartum Weight Management Intervention for Low-Income Women: End-User Perspectives as Groundwork

Background: Postpartum weight retention (PPWR) leads to increased rates of maternal and childhood obesity, especially among low-income families. Literature is sparse regarding interventions to address PPWR.

Objective: To gain practical insight into low-income women's preferences and opinions regarding PPWR management at a community-based organization (CBO).

Methods: Mixed female focus groups composed of CBO staff and clients (n = 17) were asked open-ended questions about PPWR and potential intervention components. Systematic analysis of the discussions was performed to identify overarching themes.

Conclusions: The tenets of community-engaged research state the necessity of developing community-based interventions with initial input and partnership with the potential end-users. In this study, low-income women were eager to share their thoughts about the postpartum period and potential solutions to correct unhealthy weight, thus completing a critical step in intervention development. The majority of women wanted to manage their weight in the postpartum setting, but needed structure, social support, assurance they would not injure themselves or their babies, and time saving strategies to do so.