Weight Gain During Pregnancy

Every expectant mother will experience weight gain during pregnancy, and the amount will differ between women. It is likely to be approximately 1-2kgs over the initial three months with another 1-2kgs each month for the remainder of the  pregnancy. This will equate to an approximate weight gain of 11-16kgs throughout the duration of a full-term pregnancy, though it is still normal to gain weight at a different rate to these estimates.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has calculated a weight gain during pregnancy guide based on your pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) which is as follows:

• An underweight mother pre-pregnancy with a BMI less than 18.5 could expect a weight gain of12-18kgs
• A normal weight mother pre-pregnancy with a BMI between 18.5-24.9 could expect a weight gain of 11-16kgs
• An overweight mother pre-pregnancy with a BMI between 25-29.9 could expect a weight gain of 6-11kgs
• An obese mother pre-pregnancy with a BMI greater than 30 could expect a weight gain of 5-9kgs

It is important for your health and the health of your baby to maintain a well-balanced diet and do light exercise throughout your pregnancy. All concerns will be addressed during your appointments, and we are able to refer you to a dietitian if you are interested and there is a medical need

For more information about weight gain during pregnancy contact Western Specialist Centre in Melbourne.