NICE is seeking views on recommendations its developed on diet and exercise to manage weight during pregnancy and after childbirth.

The aim of the new guidance is to help midwives and other health professionals support women who are pregnant or who are planning a pregnancy, and mothers who have had a baby in the last two years.

The draft recommendations cover four key areas: preparing for pregnancy, pregnant women and women who may become pregnant, particularly those with a BMI greater than 30kg/m2 and supporting women following childbirth.

The RCM’s Jane Munro said the RCM is very pleased that NICE has been looking at the evidence on this, as it is an issue of concern for most women.   ‘We have been involved in the scoping of the guideline. It will be particularly helpful in dispelling some of the myths about eating during pregnancy. Women need to know that losing weight after giving birth can be a slow process and that physical exercise and gradual weight loss will not impact on their ability to breastfeed.’

The draft guidelines Weight management in pregnancy and after childbirth are available at: http://guidance.nice.org.uk/PHG/Wave18/3

Comments on the recommendations should be submitted by 18 March.