Question 1

How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

The recommended weight gain depends on your pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index (BMI). According to guidelines (such as those from the Institute of Medicine, widely referenced in the UK), women with a 'healthy' BMI (18.5-24.9) should aim to gain between 11.5kg and 16kg. Those who are underweight should gain more (12.5-18kg), while those who are overweight (7-11.5kg) or obese (5-9kg) should gain less.

Question 2

When will I start gaining weight?

Accepted Answer

Most women gain very little weight during the first trimester (weeks 1-13) – typically around 1 to 2 kg in total. This is normal, especially if you experience morning sickness. The majority of weight gain happens in the second and third trimesters, where you might gain around 0.5kg per week if you started at a healthy weight.

Question 3

Where does the pregnancy weight go?

Accepted Answer

Only a fraction of the weight you gain is the baby itself (usually around 3-4kg at birth). The rest is made up of the placenta (0.7kg), amniotic fluid (0.8kg), increased blood volume (1.2-1.8kg), increased fluid in your tissues (1.2-1.8kg), larger breasts (0.4-1.4kg), a larger uterus (0.9kg), and maternal fat stores (3-4kg) which provide energy for breastfeeding.

Question 4

Is it safe to diet or lose weight during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

No, it is generally not recommended to actively try to lose weight or go on a restrictive diet during pregnancy. Your body needs extra nutrients to support your growing baby. If you are concerned about your weight, speak to your midwife or GP. They can refer you to a dietitian for advice on healthy eating and safe physical activity.

Question 5

What if I'm gaining weight too quickly or too slowly?

Accepted Answer

Don't panic if your weight gain doesn't perfectly match the chart every week – weight gain can happen in spurts. However, if you are consistently gaining much more or much less than recommended, discuss it with your midwife. Sudden, rapid weight gain (especially with swelling in the hands and face) can sometimes be a sign of pre-eclampsia, a condition that requires medical attention.

Question 6

Do I need to 'eat for two'?

Accepted Answer

No, the idea of `eating for two' is a myth. You don`t need any extra calories during the first and second trimesters. In the third trimester, you only need about 200 extra calories a day – roughly equivalent to a slice of wholemeal toast with baked beans, or a small handful of nuts and a piece of fruit.

Pre-pregnancy BMI	Category	Recommended Total Gain
Less than 18.5	Underweight	12.5 to 18 kg
18.5 to 24.9	Healthy Weight	11.5 to 16 kg
25.0 to 29.9	Overweight	7 to 11.5 kg
30.0 or more	Obese	5 to 9 kg

Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator

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