Frequently Asked Questions

Pregnancy

I don't want to gain too much weight during pregnancy. What's the recommended amount of weight gain?

Weight gain can be an important consideration during pregnancy. Problems can occur from either excessive weight gain or inadequate weight gain.

  • Excessive weight gain
  • Large birth weight babies
  • Prolonged, difficult labor
  • Postdate pregnancy
  • Meconium
  • Postpartum hemorrhage
  • Maternal diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Operative delivery
  • Weight retention after pregnancy
  • Inadequate weight gain
  • Increased risk of perinatal mortality
  • Prematurity
  • Low birth weight

The recommended amount of weight gain during pregnancy depends on your body mass index (BMI) prior to pregnancy. If you are obese or overweight, your weight gain should be lower.

Prepregnancy BMI Optimal gain
<19.8
25-35 lbs
15-25 lbs
approximately 15 lbs
 28-40 lbs
19.8- 26
26.1-29
> 29.0
Rate of weight gain  
First trimester
Remainder
Overweight:		 3-5 lbs
1-2 lbs/week
Gain at ½ the above rate
Caloric requirements recommended by the Institute of Medicine are as follows:
Nonpregnant
Pregnant
Lactating 		2200
2500
2600

Obese women considering pregnancy are recommended to reach their recommended BMI through diet and exercise BEFORE pregnancy. Pregnancy is not the time to start a weight loss diet.