To explain the concept of postpartum weight retention and to analyze factor effect on it.

A total of 20 studies related postpartum weight retention were selected in the year of 1988-2001 and analysis was done.

A demographic factor like parity, age, social and economic level and life style such as exercise, diet, breast feeding are influential factor on postpartum retention weight. But parts of them don't agree the same results. Meanwhile, in some studies, psychological factor like women's self esteem related to postpartum retention weight, body image change, depressing is found to be very related. As a result, postpartum overweight gain could be a bad factor of physical and mental health. In Korea, we have few studies related to them.

It is required to do many-sided and deep studies about aspects of postpartum retention weight and the factor that effect on it. Postpartum retention weight should be approached by controling weight from the period of pregnancy. And it would rather be researched through individual approach considered women's various demographic, social-cultural and physical level than be required standardized level of weight gain.