Pregnancy and the first year after childbirth in women with lipedema

Facts

Project Duration: 2024-2027

Researchers:

Joanna Dudek, principal investigator at University of Warsaw, Polen.

Johanna Falck, co-researcher

Jan Mårtensson, co-researcher

This project aims to investigate experiences of physical, psychological, and social functioning in women with lipedema in connection with pregnancy and the first year after childbirth.

Rationale for the study

Lipedema most often occurs and develops in connection with major hormonal changes, such as puberty and pregnancy. Despite this, knowledge is limited about how women with lipedema experience their health and well-being during their childbearing years.

Materials and Methods

Participants are women who have had lipedema during their pregnancy but are not currently pregnant. Data is being collected through a digital survey that has been distributed via patient organizations in the USA, the UK, and Australia. In 2026, women from Brazil and Sweden are also planned to be invited to participate.