How Much Weight Is Average for a Pregnant Woman to Gain?

Weight gain is an important part of pregnancy. Using your pre-pregnancy weight and height, your doctor will describe your healthy range. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you are a healthy weight for your size pre-pregnancy, a healthy weight gain would range from 25 to 35 pounds. The gained weight is not just fat. There is the weight of the baby and an increase in your bodily fluids.

  1. Average Gains

    • The doctor will best be able to provide you with a healthy range by examining your pre-pregnancy weight, body mass index (BMI), medical history, and any other health concerns. It is ideal to gain weight gradually, with most of the gain occurring during the second and third trimesters. Linda Burke-Galloway, M.D., explains that during the first trimester many women lose weight due to nausea and vomiting. However, weight loss in the second and third trimesters can cause harm to the baby.

      During the first trimester you only need an extra 150 to 200 calories. This will result in a gain of one to one and a half lbs. a month. Then in the second and third trimesters, your body will require an extra 400 to 500 calories a day for a healthy pregnancy resulting in a gain of one to one and a half lbs. a week. It is typical for weight gain to vary from one week to the next. Your doctor will analyze the long term pattern of your weight gain. Extra calories should be consumed through nutritious foods. Dr. Burke-Galloway explains that too much weight gain can be a sign of an inadequate diet or fluid retention--both situations that require a doctor's care.

    Special Considerations

    • The Mayo Clinic also provides general guidelines for women whose BMI is below or above average. If you had a pre-pregnancy BMI of 18.5 (105 pounds for a 5 foot 4 inch woman) or less, you will need to develop a special plan through your doctor. A mother's low BMI can lead to preterm labor and a low birth weight baby. A weight gain of 28 to 40 pounds may be suggested for you.

      If you had a pre-pregnancy BMI of 30 or more (174 pounds for a 5 foot 4 inch woman), you will also need to develop a special weight gain plan with your doctor's help. You may be advised to limit your weight gain to 15 to 25 pounds.

      Weight gain will also be higher for those carrying multiples. The American Dietetic Association recommends a weight gain of 34 to 45 pounds for twins and 50 pounds for triplets.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • How to Be a Pregnant Vegetarian
      Approximately 20 million Americans follow some form of a vegetarian diet, according to The University of Rochester Medical Center. Individuals who follow a vegetarian diet have lower rates of hypertension and Type 2 diabetes, and lower LDL cholestero
    • Diet for a Pregnant Woman With Gestational Diabetes
      Gestational diabetes is a common condition that affects approximately 4 percent of pregnant women. Fortunately, many women with gestational diabetes are able to control their blood sugar levels by following a healthy diet that limits refined carbohyd
    • Vitamins for Lactating Women
      Women must take certain vitamins during pregnancy and lactation. Prenatal vitamins during pregnancy make up for nutritional deficiencies in the mothers diet, while vitamins for lactating (or breast-feeding) ensure sufficient nutrients for mothers and