Normal weight gain during pregnancy

Gestation period (weeks)
Normal value (kg)

What is Normal Weight Gain During Pregnancy?

Normal weight gain during pregnancy refers to the recommended increase in a woman's weight that occurs as a result of pregnancy. This weight gain supports the growth and development of the baby, the placenta, amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, and changes in the woman's body. It is essential for both maternal and fetal health.

The total amount of weight gain varies depending on several factors, including the woman's pre-pregnancy weight, whether she is carrying multiple babies (e.g., twins), and her overall health.

Why is Normal Weight Gain During Pregnancy important?

Normal weight gain during pregnancy is important for several reasons:

  1. Healthy fetal development: Adequate weight gain ensures the baby has enough nutrients and energy to grow and develop properly. It supports organ development, brain function, and overall birth weight.
  2. Support for maternal health: Weight gain provides the necessary nutrients for the mother’s body to support pregnancy, including maintaining blood volume, supporting uterine growth, and preparing for breastfeeding.
  3. Reduced risks of complications: Gaining too little or too much weight during pregnancy can increase the risks of complications such as premature birth, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and low birth weight.
  4. Breastfeeding readiness: Adequate weight gain supports postpartum recovery and helps ensure the mother has enough energy and reserves to breastfeed successfully.

How Much Weight Gain is Considered Normal During Pregnancy?

The recommended weight gain during pregnancy depends on the woman's pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) provides guidelines based on BMI categories:

  1. Underweight (BMI < 18.5): Gain 28-40 pounds (12.5-18 kg).
  2. Normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9): Gain 25-35 pounds (11.5-16 kg).
  3. Overweight (BMI 25-29.9): Gain 15-25 pounds (7-11.5 kg).
  4. Obese (BMI ≥ 30): Gain 11-20 pounds (5-9 kg).

For women carrying twins, the recommended weight gain is:

  • Underweight: 37-54 pounds (16.5-24.5 kg)
  • Normal weight: 37-54 pounds (16.5-24.5 kg)
  • Overweight: 31-50 pounds (14-22.5 kg)
  • Obese: 25-42 pounds (11.5-19 kg)

Weight gain typically follows a pattern:

  • First trimester: Weight gain is minimal, usually about 1-5 pounds (0.5-2 kg).
  • Second trimester: Weight gain is more noticeable, averaging 1 pound (0.5 kg) per week.
  • Third trimester: Weight gain continues at a rate of about 1 pound (0.5 kg) per week, with the majority of the weight gain attributed to the baby, placenta, and fluid.

When Should You Be Concerned About Weight Gain During Pregnancy?

While weight gain is an essential part of a healthy pregnancy, both too much or too little weight gain can be problematic. Here’s when to be concerned:

  1. Excessive weight gain:
    • Risk factors: Too much weight gain can increase the risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, pre-eclampsia, and the need for a caesarean section. It can also lead to postpartum weight retention, which may be harder to lose after the baby is born.
    • Warning signs: If weight gain is excessive (e.g., more than 2-3 pounds per week in the second and third trimesters), it may indicate an issue like excessive fluid retention or gestational diabetes.
  2. Inadequate weight gain:
    • Risk factors: Insufficient weight gain may lead to a low birth weight baby, premature birth, or nutritional deficiencies for the mother and baby.
    • Warning signs: If the weight gain is less than expected, or if the mother is showing signs of malnutrition, such as fatigue, weakness, or dehydration, this should be addressed promptly by a healthcare provider.

When Should You Start and Stop Gaining Weight During Pregnancy?

  • Start: Healthy weight gain begins at the start of the pregnancy and increases throughout. However, the majority of weight gain occurs after the first trimester.
  • Stop: Weight gain typically slows down after the baby is born, although some women continue to gain weight up until delivery due to increased blood volume, amniotic fluid, and placenta size.

After the baby is born, weight loss typically occurs gradually, with most women losing some weight during the first few weeks as the body sheds fluid and the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size. A healthy postpartum weight loss is about 1-2 pounds per month.