Weight gained during your pregnancy isn't something
you should take lightly. If you gain too much or too
little you are going to harm yourself and your baby.
The pounds you need to add all depends on your weight
status when you become pregnant.
Recommended
weight gain guideline when pregnant:
You weighed normal before pregnancy:
Add 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy.
You were overweight before pregnancy:
Add 15 to 25 pounds during pregnancy.
You were underweight before pregnancy:
Add 28 to 40 pounds during pregnancy (again depending
on your pre-pregnancy weight).
You have a multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets
or more):
Check with your doctor. You will need to gain more
weight during pregnancy depending on the number
of babies you are carrying.
Consider the merits of
keeping track of your weight:
- Losing weight will be a lot easier after delivery.
- Your body is more prepared for breastfeeding.
- It helps protect the health of your baby and you.
What you can do:
Check with your health care provider to receive the
proper guidance on weight matters, health and nutrition.
If you are already pregnant and are overweight, do
not try to diet.
The average baby can weigh anyway between 6 to 8 pounds.
Here is rough breakdown of where the rest of the weight
goes.
|
Approximate
breakdown of a weight gain of 29 pounds
|
|
Blood |
3
pounds |
| Breasts |
2
pounds |
| Womb |
2
pounds |
| Baby |
7.5
pounds |
| Placenta |
1.5
pounds |
| Amniotic
fluid |
2
pounds |
| Fat,
protein & other nutrients |
7
pounds |
| Retained
water |
4
pounds |
Bottom line
is a slow and steady weight gain is best. It is not
an issue at which point you put on those kilos. The
important thing is the overall weight you gain should
be within the suitable range.
