Pregnancy Weight Gain: A Guide to Healthy Ranges

Weight gain during pregnancy varies according to a woman's pre-pregnancy weight, height and body mass index, and health specialists say there is no single ideal range that applies to all pregnancies. The recommended gain for women with a normal pre-pregnancy BMI is generally 11.5 to 16 kilograms, while those who begin pregnancy underweight are advised to gain 12.5 to 18 kilograms. Women who are overweight before pregnancy are advised to gain 7 to 11.5 kilograms, and those classified as obese are recommended a more limited increase of 5 to 9 kilograms. During the first trimester, weight gain may remain modest, and some women experience no increase at all due to nausea and loss of appetite, according to the guidance. Weight loss during pregnancy should be evaluated under medical supervision, and unsupervised dieting is discouraged, the specialists said. A healthy increase is supported by a balanced intake of vegetables, fruit, protein sources, dairy products, healthy fats and adequate water, along with appropriate physical activity. Pregnant women are advised to seek medical attention in cases of rapid or sustained weight gain, sudden swelling, severe headache or visual disturbances, as these may indicate complications requiring evaluation.