Physicians should help patients maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy, US task force says

Physicians should offer pregnant women counseling to support them in maintaining a healthy weight throughout pregnancy, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force said in updated guidance released May 25. 

Counseling programs may focus on nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle or behavioral changes, among other topics, and may vary in format, according to the task force. 

The updated recommendation is meant to prevent excess weight gain during pregnancy, which is linked to a higher risk of complications like gestational diabetes and emergency cesarean deliveries, among others. 

"Healthy weight gain during pregnancy is important for both pregnant people and their babies," said Aaron Caughey, MD, PhD, a task force member. "The Task Force found that clinicians can help their patients maintain a healthy weight by offering effective counseling throughout pregnancy." 

The recommendation was classified as grade B, meaning there is "high certainty that the net benefit is moderate or there is moderate certainty that the net benefit is moderate to substantial," with the suggestion that providers offer or provide the service. 

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