How much weight should I put on in pregnancy?

Doctors in the UK are still trying to decide how much weight gain is ok in pregnancy. All of us gain some weight when we’re pregnant, especially at the end of pregnancy, and each of us is different, that is why doctors here find it hard to say how much weight gain is OK for each person.

In America, guidelines suggest that women who are overweight at the start of their pregnancies (or have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above) should not put on more than 9 kg or 1 stone and 6 lb (as recommended by the Institute of Medicine).

The important thing is to keep weight gain to a safe and healthy level for you and your baby. Your doctor or midwife may be able to advise you on what is right for you.

Visit our Managing your weight in pregnancy section if you are concerned about your weight.

Visit our Frequently asked questions about diet and weight in pregnancy page for more information.

Sources

Institute of Medicine (2009) Weight Gain During Pregnancy: Re-examining the Guidelines, Institute of Medicine guidelines: United States

Also in the pregnancy health section

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