Weight Gain During Pregnancy

Hello! Today, we will discuss in detail what constitutes a normal weight gain during pregnancy and how to properly monitor your weight during this time.

The Myth of "Eating for Two"

Many have heard the saying that during pregnancy, you need to "eat for two." However, this is not entirely true! The daily calorie intake should only be increased by 300 calories starting from the 24th-25th week of pregnancy. Weight gain depends on several factors, including the woman's initial weight.

How to Calculate Normal Weight Gain

To start, you should calculate your body mass index (BMI). This can be done by dividing your weight (in kilograms) by your height (in meters) squared. Depending on the results, the normal weight gain for the entire pregnancy will be as follows:

BMI less than 18.5 (underweight) — weight gain from 12.5 to 18 kg.
BMI 18.5-24.9 (normal weight) — weight gain from 11.5 to 16 kg.
BMI 25-29.9 (overweight) — weight gain from 7 to 11.5 kg.
BMI greater than 30 (obesity) — weight gain from 5 to 9 kg.

Weight Gain Considerations for Overweight Women

If your BMI is above normal, weight gain will be limited. It is essential to control it from the beginning of pregnancy to avoid unnecessary risks. Women with obesity should not gain more than 230 grams per week during the second and third trimesters.

Factors Influencing Weight Gain

Weight during pregnancy increases not only due to the growth of the fetus but also due to other physiological factors:

Fetal weight — approximately 3.2-3.5 kg.
Uterine enlargement — around 900 g.
Amniotic fluid — 900 g.
Enlarged breasts — about 450 g.
Placenta — approximately 700 g.
Increased blood volume and extracellular fluid — 2.5-3.6 kg.

Consequences of Excessive or Insufficient Weight Gain

It is important to ensure that your weight gain stays within normal limits. Excessive weight gain can lead to problems such as:

Hypertension (high blood pressure) and preeclampsia.
Gestational diabetes.
Risks for the fetus (large baby and potential health problems).
Complicated labor and the need for a cesarean section.

Additionally, women who gain too much weight during pregnancy face difficulties in regaining their pre-pregnancy shape. This makes weight loss and recovery more challenging after childbirth.

Insufficient Weight Gain

On the other hand, insufficient weight gain can lead to premature birth, fetal growth restriction, and numerous neurological and other issues in the newborn.

Conclusion

It is crucial to monitor weight gain to avoid both excessive and insufficient weight increases. Balanced nutrition and regular consultations with your doctor will help you maintain a healthy weight and successfully carry a healthy baby.

Thank you for your attention! Don’t forget to monitor your health and consult your doctor at every stage of pregnancy.

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Weight Gain During Pregnancy: Norms and Recommendations

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Learn how to properly control weight gain during pregnancy, what factors influence weight, and what to do if there are deviations.