How Much Weight Should You Gain When You're Pregnant?

Weight gain is vital to your baby's development.

It Depends on the Pre-Pregnancy Weight

The Mayo Clinic states several guidelines depending on your pre-pregnancy weight. Underweight women with a body mass index (BMI) of less than 18.5 should gain 28 to 40 pounds. Normal weight (18.5 to 24.9 BMI) requires 25 to 35 pounds, overweight women (25 to 29.9 BMI) require 15 to 25 pounds and obese women (30-plus BMI) require 11 to 20 pounds.

It Should Be Gradual

According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), weight gained steadily during pregnancy is vital for providing nutrition and nourishment for the growing baby. The reason for this is that your baby needs a steady, daily supply of nutrients provided by you. Keeping weight gain gradual assists in this in addition to reducing your risk of stretch marks, varicose veins and fatigue.

Bottom Line

Although weight gain is important for expecting mothers, the process should be a slow and gradual one in order to have the healthiest results for both mother and baby. The best option is to ask your health care provider and work out the perfect weight plan for your pregnancy.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Pregnancy Weight Gain: What's Healthy?
• American Pregnancy Association: Eating For Two