How much weight gain can I expect? - November 2024

How much weight gain is normal during pregnancy? You are expected to gain approximately 25 – 35 lbs (11 – 16kg) in pregnancy. However, the appropriate weight gain in pregnancy actually depends on your pre pregnancy weight or body mass index. Body mass index (BMI) your weight in kg your height in meter2 For Asians, the BMI are categorized slightly different compared to the Caucasian populations. BMI Classification Risk compared to normal weight <18.5 Underweight Increased 18.5 – 22.9 Normal Normal ≥ 23 Overweight Increased 23 – 24.9 At Risk High 25 – 29.9 Obese Class I Severe ≥ 30 Obese Class II Very High Table 1: WHO Guidelines on Asian BMI values 1 Therefore, depending on your pre pregnancy weight, the ideal expected weight gain in pregnancy is shown below. As you can see the higher your BMI pre pregnancy, the less weight you should be gaining during pregnancy. Pre Pregnancy BMI Expected weight gain in pregnancy (in lbs) Underweight 25 – 37 Normal 25 – 35 Overweight 15 – 25 * 1 kg 2.2 lb The expected rate of weight gain throughout pregnancy also depends on your BMI: Pre Pregnancy BMI 1st Trimester 2nd Trimester 3rd Trimester Underweight 5- 6 lb 1 – 2 lb / week 1 – 2 lb / week Normal 3 – 5 lb 1 – 2 lb / week 1 -2 lb / week Overweight 1- 2 lb 1 lb / week 1 lb / week *1 kg 2.2lb Where does all the extra weight go to? Baby: 7-8 pounds Placenta: 1-2 pounds Amniotic fluid: 2 pounds Uterus: 2 pounds Maternal breast tissue: 2 pounds Maternal blood : 4 pounds Fluids in maternal tissue: 4 pounds Maternal fat and nutrient stores: 7 pounds Will there be any problem if I gain too little or too much weight during pregnancy? Your doctor will monitor your weight gain throughout pregnancy as too much or too little weight gain may indicate problems. Too little weight gain in the mother could indicate overall poor maternal nutrition that could lead to poor baby growth and increased risk of premature delivery. On the other hand, too much weight gain could cause an increased risk of high blood pressure, back ache, leg pain, varicose vein, increased fatigue, diabetes and a big baby which may cause increased risk of operative delivery in the mother. In addition, sudden weight gain especially in the third trimester could be early signs of high blood pressure. This patient may also notice increased puffiness/ swelling of the hands and face. What can I do if I gained ‘too much weight’ during pregnancy? Firstly, before you worry too much and get depressed about your weight gain. You need to be aware that weight gain in pregnancy is healthy and totally normal. Make sure you eat healthy nutritional food and exercise in moderation. Trying to loose weight is not encouraged during pregnancy. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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