How to use Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator
- Below are the steps you can follow to use a Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator:
- Your Current Pregnancy Stage: Enter the current stage of your pregnancy, for example, Week 20.
- Your Height: Enter your height, such as 5 ft 11.65 in.
- Current Weight: Input your current weight, for example, 176.4 pounds.
- Weight Before Pregnancy: Insert your weight before becoming pregnant, such as 165.35 pounds.
- Calculate: Click on the “Calculate” button. The calculator will process this information and provide you with an estimate of the recommended weight gain during your pregnancy based on your height, current weight, and stage of pregnancy.
- Adjust if Necessary: Depending on your specific circumstances, your healthcare provider may recommend a different weight gain range. It’s important to consult with your doctor or midwife for personalized advice and guidance.
Recommended weight gain during pregnancy
During pregnancy, weight gain is essential to provide nutrients for the fetus and prepare for breastfeeding. Studies suggest that optimal weight gain, based on body mass index (BMI), leads to better outcomes for both mother and baby. It is generally recommended to gain 1-4 pounds in the first 3 months and 1 pound per week thereafter. The Institute of Medicine provides weight gain guidelines based on pre-pregnancy BMI, but individual needs vary, so consulting a healthcare provider is important for personalized advice.
Recommendations for total weight gain during pregnancy by prepregnancy BMI
Prepregnancy BMI (kg/m2) | Category | Total Weight Gain Range | Total Weight Gain Range for Pregnancy with Twins |
<18.5 | Underweight | 28-40 lbs | |
18.5-24.9 | Normal Weight | 25-35 lbs | 37-54 lbs |
25.0-29.9 | Overweight | 15-25 lbs | 31-50 lbs |
>30.0 | Obese | 11-20 lbs | 25-42 lbs |
What are some factors to consider regarding weight gain during pregnancy?
- Weight gain should be at a steady pace
- Sudden increase or loss in weight should be reported to the obstetricians
- Erratic weight gain may have adverse effects on the baby
- Sudden increase in weight may be a warning of pre-eclampsia
What are the effects of excessively high or low gestational weight gain?
Excessive gestational weight gain can lead to postpartum weight retention, increasing the risk of long-term obesity for the mother. Failing to lose pregnancy weight within 6 months post-pregnancy further elevates this risk, posing potential harm to the woman’s health. Risks of excessive weight gain during pregnancy include pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), pre-eclampsia, varicose veins, gestational diabetes, increased fatigue, and heightened risk of post-menopausal breast cancer. Additionally, it raises the likelihood of giving birth to obese children.
Conversely, being underweight during pregnancy can result in low birth weight and a higher risk of premature birth and neonatal mortality. It also increases the chances of having obese children.
References:
https://www.calculator.net/pregnancy-weight-gain-calculator.html
https://www.babycenter.com/pregnancy-weight-gain-estimator
Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator
