Mother's Guide

Learn More About Pregnancy Weight Gain

Speaking with your doctor about your potential weight gain is extremely important. If you are slightly above or below the normal weight which has been prescribed as normal at your stage, there is no need to worry. Your doctor will be able to tell you the right ways to gain the proper weight during pregnancy.

Important Facts about Pregnancy Weight Gain

Researches have shown that during pregnancy a weight gain of 25 to 35 pounds (11 to 16 kgs) is ideal. Underweight women should ideally gain 28 to 40 pounds (12.5 to 18 kgs). Overweight women should ideally gain 15 to 25 pounds (6.8 to 11 kgs). Obese women should gain 11 to 20 pounds (5 to 9 kgs). During pregnancy eat only low fat meals so that you gain weight correctly during your pregnancy. It is important to eat a well-rounded diet. It is recommended that pregnant women should consume at least 3 to 4 servings of protein, 4 servings of dairy products including milk, 5 servings of fruits and vegetables and 4 servings of whole grain products.

Weight Distribution through pregnancy:

  • At the end of the pregnancy, the baby weighs about 7 ½ pounds
  • The placenta weighs 1 ½ pounds
  • Increased fluid volume in the body attributes for 4 pounds
  • The uterus weighs 2 pounds
  • The increased mass of the breast tissue is 2 pounds
  • The increased blood volume adds 4 pounds to the weight.
  • The muscle development and the stores of nutrients add an additional 7 pounds
  • The amniotic fluid makes for 2 pounds

The entire Total: 30 pounds

  • In the first trimester, a woman gains around 1 pound per month
  • In the second trimester, a woman gains around ½ a pound per week
  • In the third trimester, a woman gains around 1 pound per week

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