Question

Following the birth of her baby, a woman expresses concern about the weight she gained during pregnancy and how quickly she can lose it now that the baby is born. The nurse, in describing the expected pattern of weight loss, should begin by telling this woman that:

A. Return to pre-pregnant weight is usually achieved by the end of the postpartum period.
B. Fluid loss from diuresis, diaphoresis, and bleeding accounts for about a 3-pound weight loss.
C. The expected weight loss immediately after birth averages about 11 to 13 pounds.
D. Lactation will inhibit weight loss since caloric intake must increase to support milk production.

Answer 1

The expected pattern of post-pregnancy weight loss begins with an immediate loss of approximately 11 to 13 pounds after birth (option C). Subsequent weight loss occurs gradually at a rate of about 1 lb per week; however, the timing to return to pre-pregnancy weight can vary. Lactation can assist with weight loss due to the extra calories burned in milk production.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse, in describing the expected pattern of weight loss post-pregnancy, should mention that the expected weight loss immediately after birth averages about 11 to 13 pounds. This weight accounts for the baby's weight, the placenta, and amniotic fluid. In the days and weeks following birth, additional weight is lost through diuresis, diaphoresis, and the loss of blood from the detachment of the placenta which accounts for some weight loss. Most women gradually lose the extra pounds they gained during pregnancy, at a rate of approximately 0.45 kg (1 lb) per week, but a return to pre-pregnancy weight can vary greatly among individuals. Lactation actually may help with weight loss, as producing breast milk consumes extra calories.

During the second and third trimesters, an expectant mother's appetite might increase; however, only an extra 300 calories per day are necessary. After the baby is born, if the mother chooses to breastfeed, lactation does require additional caloric intake but can also assist in gradually losing weight, as producing milk uses additional calories.

A hasty return to pre-pregnancy weight is not typical, as it takes time for the body to recover from pregnancy and childbirth. It's important for new mothers to approach postpartum weight loss with a mindset geared towards gradual and healthy reduction, rather than immediate results.