Pregnancy weight needs careful attention as it influences the health of the mother as well as that of the child. It is a proven fact that the weight of a woman has a significant impact on her chances to get pregnant. Underweight as well as overweight women have fewer chances for pregnancy as the fertility of a woman is influenced by her weight.
Underweight women run the risk of delivering smaller babies as well as pre-term babies. Low birth weight babies have a higher rate of mortality than normal babies. These babies have a higher chance for developmental disorders and suffer ill health frequently. Overweight women run the risk of developing complications such as diabetes, hypertension, hemorrhage, difficult labor, varicose veins, backache, extreme tiredness, and have an increased chance for neural tube defect in the fetus.
The weight gained during pregnancy is inevitable whether you like it or not, and it holds a lot of importance when it comes to a baby’s growth and development. When right amount of weight is gained during pregnancy, it can not only help to support your baby’s health but also make the weight loss process easier after delivery. However the amount of weight you need to gain depends on many factors like your body mass index, your health and your pre-pregnancy weight
How much weight gain is “normal” during pregnancy?
How much weight you should expect to gain during pregnancy varies depending on your pre-pregnancy weight. For example, pregnant women who had a “normal” weight before pregnancy (or for those with a BMI of 18.5 – 24.9), the recommended weight gain during pregnancy is anywhere from 25-35 pounds.
On the other hand, women who are underweight prior to conception may gain up to 40 pounds. This is especially important since underweight women stand to pose the greatest health risks to their babies.
Finally, women who are overweight should gain a maximum of 25 pounds. However, if you have been diagnosed as clinically obese, then it is recommended your pregnancy weight not exceed 15 pounds.
Of course, the amount of weight gain that is considered normal increases substantially for those carrying twins or multiple babies. In this case, the amount of recommended weight gain increases to about 45 pounds, depending on your pre-pregnancy weight and the amount of babies you are carrying.
In terms of when this weight gain will occur on a week-by-week basis, you should expect to gain about 5 pounds before you are 12 weeks pregnant. After that, you can expect a steady weight gain of about 1-2 pounds a week right up until the birth your baby.
However, how much weight you gain and how often you put on extra weight during pregnancy may vary for a variety of reasons. Being in regular contact with your doctor during pregnancy will help you to be sure what amount is right for you
What is the weight made up of?
On average, weight gained during pregnancy is due to the following factors:
- Your baby: 6-8 pounds (by the end of the pregnancy)
- The placenta: 1.5 pounds
- Increased fluid volume: 2-3 pounds
- Uterus: 2 pounds
- Increased storage of maternal fats, proteins and other nutrients: 4-6 pounds
- Breast enlargement: 1-2 pounds
- Blood volume: 3-4 pounds
- Amniotic fluid: 2 pounds
Can unnecessary weight gain be prevented?
While a little extra weight is necessary for a healthy pregnancy, how to gain weight (fragment). One of the best methods is to eat a healthy pregnancy dietfull of whole grains, fruits and vegetables as well as lean proteins and dairy products, which will help you and your baby get the nutrients you need.
And don’t be afraid to exercise! Regular, moderate exercise, including yoga, swimming and walking are great ways to keep yourself in shape and make post-pregnancy weight loss that much easier! Of course, you should always consult with your doctor regarding what types of food and fitness regimens are best for you.
What is the weight made up of?
On average, weight gained during pregnancy is due to the following factors:
- Your baby: 6-8 pounds (by the end of the pregnancy)
- The placenta: 1.5 pounds
- Increased fluid volume: 2-3 pounds
- Uterus: 2 pounds
- Increased storage of maternal fats, proteins and other nutrients: 4-6 pounds
- Breast enlargement: 1-2 pounds
- Blood volume: 3-4 pounds
- Amniotic fluid: 2 pounds
Meals to Control Your Weight Gain
It is therefore important to eat nutritious and balanced meals that help to maintain your weight gain during pregnancy. Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, foods rich in iron, folic acid, calcium, vitamin b etc. Doctors usually recommend supplements of folic acid and multi-vitamins to ensure the healthy development of the baby. Do not eat junk food catering to your taste but choose foods wisely, foods that are nourishing and satisfying. Be sure to watch out for the list of foods that you have to avoid such as undercooked meat and eggs, soft cheese, raw fish etc.
