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When you need to gain more weight during pregnancy

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Most women should gain somewhere between 25 and 35 pounds (11 and 16 kilograms) during pregnancy. If a woman does not gain enough weight, there may be health problems for the mother and baby.

What is the Right Amount of Weight to Gain?

Most women will gain 2 to 4 pounds (1 to 2 kilograms) during the first trimester, and 1 pound (0.5 kilogram) a week for the rest of the pregnancy. Through the entire pregnancy:

Some women have a hard time gaining weight during pregnancy. Sometimes, it is because they start a pregnancy underweight, or they have other health issues that keep them from gaining weight. Sometimes, they are not able to keep food down due to nausea and vomiting.

Either way, a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, along with moderate exercise, is the basis for a healthy pregnancy. Ask your health care provider how many calories you should eat each day, and how you can gain the right amount of weight.

If you Need to Gain Weight During Pregnancy

If your provider says you should gain more weight, here are some tips to help:

Body Image and Pregnancy

If you have struggled with your weight in the past, it may be hard to accept that it is OK to gain weight now. It is normal to feel anxious as the numbers on the scale edge up.

Pregnancy is not a time to diet or worry about weight gain. Keep in mind that weight gain is needed for a healthy pregnancy. The extra weight will come off after you have had your baby. Remember not to gain too much, as this can cause your baby to be too big. A healthy diet and regular exercise will help you have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

If worries about your body image affect your pregnancy or daily life, talk to your provider.

References

Berger DS, West EH. Nutrition during pregnancy. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds.Gabbe's Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 6.

Bodnar LM, Himes KP. Maternal nutrition. In: Lockwood CJ, Copel JA, Dugoff L, et al, eds. Creasy and Resnik's Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Principles and Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 12.

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Review Date: 11/21/2022  

Reviewed By: LaQuita Martinez, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Alpharetta, GA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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