Group-based lifestyle sessions for gestational weight gain management: a mixed method approach.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To integrate group-based lifestyle sessions (GBLS) within prenatal care for gestational weight gain (GWG) management. METHODS: In Study 1, participants attended GBLS during prenatal care visits. Participants in Study 2 attended off-site GBLS whereby care providers were asked to discuss the program with patients. Process and outcome evaluation were conducted through a mixed-methods approach. RESULTS: In both pre-experimental feasibility studies, data provide preliminary support for GBLS (eg, positive care provider and patient feedback, weight gain patterns) as well as highlight areas for future research (eg, lack of GWG management discussions, preference for GBLS location). CONCLUSIONS: GBLS represents a promising approach to GWG management. Future research should assess the generalizability, sustainably, and compatibility of GBLS within prenatal care.