Guide to Pregnancy Weight Gain

November 10, 2015

Because of your growing baby’s increasing nutritional demands, you can expect to experience weight gain during pregnancy. But eating for two does not mean that you have free rein to consume at will. A healthy lifestyle and good nutritional habits are very important during pregnancy. Not only will healthy eating help your baby to be strong and well developed, but also it will ensure that you maintain good health during and after pregnancy.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a step-by-step guide for exactly how much weight a woman should gain during pregnancy. The amount of weight gain will depend on a woman’s pre-pregnancy weight and body mass index (also called BMI). Of course, the mother’s health before pregnancy and the baby’s health play a role, too. It’s best to work closely with your health care provider to determine how much weight gain is appropriate for you.

In general, if you are a normal weight, with a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 pre-pregnancy, you should expect to gain between 25 pounds and 35 pounds throughout the course of your pregnancy.¹Refer to the chart below for more information on weight gain for your specific situation.

Pregnancy Weight Gain for Twins and Other Multiples

If you are carrying multiples, you can expect to gain more weight than a woman who is carrying one baby. Again, weight gain with twins and other multiples also depends on your pre-pregnancy weight and BMI. If you are a normal weight and carrying twins, you should expect to gain somewhere between 37 pounds and 54 pounds throughout the course of your pregnancy.¹ If you are overweight or obese, the recommended weight gain is 31 pounds to 51 pounds, and 25 pounds to 42 pounds, respectively.¹

Nutritional Support for Mom and Baby Throughout Pregnancy & Beyond

Managing calories and getting the vitamins and minerals you need in the recommended amounts can be a daunting task, especially when you are eating for two. Even with a careful diet, it is difficult for most women to get the amount of nutrients recommended for a healthy pregnancy from food alone. Prescription prenatal vitamins can help cover the nutritional gaps. The Prenate^® Vitamin Family offers nutritional support for mothers and their babies for every step of pregnancy and after delivery. Ask your doctor if the Prenate^® Vitamin Family is right for you. Click here to learn more about the Prenate^® Vitamin Family.