Gaining weight during pre pregnancy:

Pregnant Weight Gain I need help on Pregnant Weight Gain can some one please answer?

A woman must gain weight during pregnancy irrespective of the pre-pregnancy weight.



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.

If your pre-pregnancy weight is under your ideal body weight then the recommended weight gain would be 28-40 pounds, if it is normal weight then the recommended weight gain would be 25-35 pounds, if you are overweight then the recommended weight gain would be 15-25 pounds and if you are obese then the recommended weight gain would be at least 15 pounds.



If you carry twins or triplets then the recommended weight gain would be more – approximately 35-45 pounds. You need not go on any kind of diet if you are overweight or obese. Although being overweight or obese can put you at risk for gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, losing weight when you are pregnant is never recommended. But it is important to keep a track of weight gain throughout pregnancy and avoid gain more than the recommended levels. If you are underweight then it would be wise to increase your body weight gradually especially during second and third trimester. If extra weight is not achieved then there are chances of preterm or low weight babies.

So you wonder where this excess weight gained goes, the baby may weigh approximately 7-8 pounds, then what about the other weight?  Here is a sample breakdown – large uterus 2 pounds, excess breast tissue 1-3 pounds, placenta 1 ½ pounds, amniotic fluid 2 pounds, fat stores 6-8 pounds, increased blood volume 3-4 pounds and increased fluid volume 2-3 pounds.

If you have a healthy body weight when you begin pregnancy then you may need to gain only a few pounds in your first trimester, this can be good news as you might be struggling with nausea and morning sickness. However a steady weight gain is essential in the second and third trimester. An extra 300 calories per day approximately (according to your body weight) can help you gain 3-4 pounds per month which is enough to meet your goal (if your pre-pregnancy weight is normal). However if you are underweight or above your ideal body weight before your pregnancy then you health care provider will suggest boosting your calories to gain weight or including nutrient rich foods to maintain your weight.