Effects of a lifestyle change on breastfeeding and infant growth after pregnancy

Impact of a Postpartum Lifestyle Intervention on Lactation outcomes, Breastmilk Composition and Infant Growth

NIH-funded research Women and Infants Hospital-Rhode Island · NIH-11018673

This study is looking at how a special program that helps new moms who are overweight or obese eat better and exercise can improve their breastfeeding experience and the quality of their breastmilk, so they can support their baby's growth and health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWomen and Infants Hospital-Rhode Island NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-11018673 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a structured lifestyle intervention, focusing on diet and exercise, can improve breastfeeding outcomes and the nutritional quality of breastmilk in women who are overweight or obese after childbirth. Participants will be recruited three months postpartum and will either follow a closely supervised lifestyle program or receive standard care. The study aims to understand how these changes can positively affect both the mother's health and the growth of their infants over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who are overweight or obese and are planning to become pregnant within the next two years.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or obese or those who are not planning a subsequent pregnancy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved breastfeeding success and better health outcomes for both mothers and their infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that lifestyle interventions can positively impact maternal and infant health, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

Providence, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.