Weight Gain

How Much Weight Should You Gain?

Weight gain is a normal part of pregnancy and is needed for your baby's health. A woman who does not gain enough weight is more likely to have a low birth weight baby. The baby who weighs less than 2.5 kg (5 1/2 pounds) often has to stay in hospital longer and is at more risk of major health problems. Gaining too much weight can make delivery more difficult. The excess weight can also be difficult to lose after pregnancy. The type and amount of food you eat affects the health and weight gain of you and your baby.

• The recommended weight gain for a healthy baby depends on your weight before pregnancy.
• Most women can eat according to their appetite. If you are gaining too much or too little weight then you may need to change what you are eating.
• Dieting is not safe in pregnancy.
• Your weight gain should be gradual and steady.
• Any sudden change in weight should be discussed with your doctor.

If you were a healthy weight (BMI of 20 to 27) before pregnancy:

• Recommended total weight gain is 11.5 to 16 kg (25-35 lbs).
• A good rate of gain after the first trimester on average is about .4 kg (1 lb.) each week.
• Short women (less than 157 cm) should gain at the lower end of the range.

If you were underweight (BMI of less than 20) before pregnancy:

• Recommended total weight gain is 12.5 to 18 kg (28 - 40 lbs).
• A good rate of gain after the first trimester on average is 1/2 kg (more than 1 lb) each week.

If you were overweight (BMI of more than 27) before pregnancy:

• Recommended total weight gain is 7 to 11.5 kg (15-25 lbs).
• A good rate of gain after the first trimester on average is 1/3 kg (1/2 to 3/4 lb) each week.

Twin Pregnancy

• Recommended total weight gain is 16 to 20.5 kg (35-45 lbs).
• A good rate of gain after the first trimester on average is 3/4 kg (1-3/4 lbs) each week.

Check Your Weight Gain During Pregnancy

The chart above can be used as a guideline for weight gain during pregnancy.

• Find the number of weeks pregnant.
• Go up the line until you reach your weight gain.
• Mark an "x" there.
• Your weight gain should follow a pattern similar to that shown on the chart.
• Chart your weight gain every two to four weeks.

Where Does the Weight Go?