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The amount you should gain depends on your body and pregnancy. Gaining too much weight can increase the risk of gestational diabetes and complications during delivery. However, gaining too little can lead to premature birth.
The timing of weight gain matters, too. Many women gain little to no weight in the first trimester, with weight gain occurring primarily during the second and third trimesters. Eating a balanced diet throughout pregnancy is crucial to ensure your baby gets the nutrients needed for proper growth and development.
At Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology in Atlanta and Alpharetta, Georgia, our team of experienced OB/GYNs offers guidance at every step of your pregnancy journey. One of the most common questions they receive from mothers-to-be is about weight gain. Here’s what the Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology experts want you to know.
Consider your pre-pregnancy weight to determine how much weight you should gain during pregnancy. Body Mass Index (BMI) is a valuable measurement relating height to weight. BMI categories help to assess whether you're underweight, at a healthy weight, overweight, or obese:
Generally, women with a normal BMI should gain 25-35 pounds during pregnancy. Those who are underweight before pregnancy should aim for 28-40 pounds. Women who are overweight should gain between 15-25 pounds, and those who are obese should gain 11-20 pounds.
Each pregnancy is unique, and your physician helps monitor your weight gain to ensure it's on track. If you're expecting multiples, your recommended weight gain will be higher.
Many new moms are surprised they gain little weight in the first trimester. At the end of the first trimester, your baby is only about the size of a peach. You might gain only 1-5 pounds during the first three months if you start at a healthy weight.
During the second trimester, your baby grows significantly, reaching the size of a zucchini. Women typically gain about 1-1.5 pounds per week during this stage, totaling around 12-14 pounds.
Providers often recommend increasing your intake by 300 calories daily during this period. In the third trimester, your baby continues to grow and prepare for birth, reaching the size of a watermelon.
However, your rate of weight gain should stay the same. Expect to gain about a pound per week, with an additional 300-450 calories per day sufficient.
A balanced diet is crucial throughout pregnancy to support your baby's development. A steady intake of calories throughout the day helps maintain a healthy weight gain for you and your baby.
To learn more about our pregnancy and delivery care services from the first-class team at Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology, contact us by phone or request an appointment online today.
