During pregnancy, most women gain between 25 and 35 pounds (11.5 to 16 kilograms), but the amount can vary depending on factors such as their pre- pregnancy weight and whether they are carrying more than one baby.
- Women with a healthy pre-pregnancy weight are generally advised to gain 25-35 pounds (11.5-16 kg).
- Underweight women may need to gain about 28-40 pounds (12-18 kg).
- Overweight women should aim for a lower gain, around 15-25 pounds (7-11.5 kg).
- Women with obesity may gain even less, about 5-9 kg.
- For twin pregnancies, weight gain recommendations are higher, typically 37-54 pounds (16.5-24.5 kg).
The weight gain consists not only of the baby’s weight but also includes placenta, amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, breast tissue, uterus growth, and fat stores for breastfeeding. For example, in a typical 35-pound gain, the baby accounts for around 8 pounds, with the rest coming from these other components. Weight gain distribution on average is about 2-4 pounds in the first trimester, then approximately 1 pound per week during the second and third trimesters for women of normal weight.