What You Need to Know About Weight Gain in Pregnancy

Did you know that 21% of women gains over 40 pounds during pregnancy?

Many women gain weight during pregnancy and worrying about this may lead to a loss of self-esteem. It comes with a lot of mood swings, exhaustion, and unexpected complications.

If you’re on your first pregnancy and you don’t have enough knowledge about it, we’re here to help you.

Keep reading to learn all the facts you need to know about weight gain in pregnancy.

Understanding When the Weight Gain Starts

Most women gain between 10 and 15 pounds during their first trimester. This is because the pregnant body is storing up extra energy to support your baby’s growth.

You may not start to show outward signs of weight gain until the second trimester. But by the end of the third trimester, you can expect to have gained about 25 to 35 pounds.

How Much Weight Should You Gain

Pregnancy is a time when many women think about their weight. With all the changes that happen during pregnancy, it can be difficult to know how much weight you should gain. The following are the few things to keep in mind when it comes to your pregnancy body weight.

Underweight

You need to gain more weight than the average pregnant woman. It’s because you have less body fat to draw on for energy and nutrients. You may need to eat more calories and consume more nutrients than you did before you became pregnant.

You may need to gain 28 to 40 pounds if you start out at a low weight. If you are very thin, you may need to gain more.

Normal Weight

You will need to consume about 300 extra calories each day to support the growing fetus. If you started out at a normal weight, you should gain about 25 to 30 pounds. 

Overweight or Obese

Your healthcare provider will have specific recommendations for you based on your health and pregnancy goals. In general, overweight and obese women should aim to gain between 15 and 25 pounds during pregnancy. This may seem like a lot, but remember that your baby is growing and needs the extra nutrition to develop properly.

Every pregnancy is different. Your healthcare provider will give you specific guidelines based on your individual situation. However, these are general guidelines that can help you know what to expect.

Causes of Weight Gain

Weight gained in pregnancy is a normal and necessary part of pregnancy. The following are the causes of weight gain during pregnancy.

Growing Baby

The weight of your baby also plays a role in how much weight you gain during pregnancy. A large baby may cause you to gain more weight than a smaller baby. If you are carrying twins or other multiples, you will likely gain more weight than if you were carrying only one baby.

The Placenta

The placenta is a large, flat disc that provides nutrients and oxygen to the baby through the umbilical cord. It also eliminates waste products from the baby’s blood.

It is rich in blood vessels and as it grows, it adds to the mother’s blood volume. This increase in blood volume can cause the mother to keep fluid and gain weight.

The Amniotic Fluid

This is the protective liquid that surrounds the baby in the womb. This cushions and protects the fetus from shocks and bumps.
The fluid is made up of water, protein, salts, and sugars. It accounts for about 2 pounds.

Increase in Breast Tissue and Blood Volume

During pregnancy, a woman’s breasts will enlarge as they fill with milk for nursing. This is caused by an increase in blood volume and tissue in the breasts.

In addition, the body stores more fat during pregnancy, which leads to weight gain. All these changes are necessary to support a baby during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

Achieve a Healthy Weight Gain

Every woman is different and will gain weight at different rates. The most important thing is to make sure you are gaining a healthy amount of weight. Here are some tips for achieving a healthy pregnancy weight gain.

Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is key to maintaining a healthy pregnancy weight. Aim to eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Going healthy makes you avoid health complications. 

It is also important to limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats. When it comes to portion sizes, aim for about the size of your fist for each meal. And be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Get regular exercise

Pregnant women should aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Regular exercise can help improve your mood, energy level, and sleep quality.

If you were inactive before becoming pregnant, start slowly. Gradually increase the frequency and intensity of your workouts.

Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are all great exercises to do during pregnancy. Just be sure to talk to your doctor before you start any kind of exercise program. This will ensure that it is safe for you and your baby.

Talk to Your Doctor

Your healthcare provider will give you a weight gain range to aim for during your pregnancy. They may also provide you with guidance on how to manage your weight gain in a healthy way. They can help you understand what is normal and answer any questions you may have.

In addition, you can consult your doctor for a mommy makeover surgery. This can help a woman lose the excess weight and get her body back to its pre-pregnancy state. It is a great way to restore your body and your confidence.

Healthy Weight Gain in Pregnancy

A healthy pregnancy comes with a healthy weight gain. Learning when the weight gain starts and how much weight you should gain can help you manage and ensure a good weight gain in pregnancy.

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