Scientists reporting in the American Journal of Epidemiology say even relatively short periods of sleep deprivation just 6 months after delivery may influence weight.
The study found women who got less than an average of 5 hours of sleep daily during their first 6 months after childbirth were likely to weigh at least 11 pounds more than their pre pregnancy weight at one year after childbirth.
Scientists say getting enough sleep may be as important as a healthy diet and regular physical activity in preventing excess weight retention after childbirth.
