How much weight gain during pregnancy?
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| weight gain during pregnancy |
Pregnancy weight gain calculator
During pregnancy, we gain weight, what could be more normal? Except that very often, we talk (almost) only about that. For fear of gaining too much or not enough weight, we keep an anxious eye on the scale during these nine months. Here are some rules, advice and benchmarks, so that this vigilance does not turn into an obsession.
During pregnancy , you should gain weight as regularly as possible and increase it gradually until the baby arrives. As for the number of kilos, it all depends on your pre- pregnancy weight . A subject to discuss during your first appointments with your gynecologist or midwife .
Pregnant woman: what is the weight gain month by month?
During the first trimester of pregnancy , it is advisable to gain a maximum of one kilo per month. However, weight gain may be less or non-existent in those who suffer from severe nausea and vomiting. This has no impact on the fetus . However, if these disorders are too severe, medical treatment or even hospitalization may be necessary.
In the second trimester of pregnancy , weight gain can reach 1.5 kg per month, but no more. During the last trimester , the baby's needs skyrocket! We then have more appetite: the "authorized" weight gain is then 2 kg per month.
The ideal average weight gain in pregnant women according to BMI
The recommended weight gain is not the same for everyone! If you are very thin, you can – or even have to – gain more weight than if you are plump or really overweight , in order to build up the fat and protein reserves that you are lacking. The weight gain recommendations during pregnancy vary from 5 to 18 kg depending on the BMI of the mother-to-be !
To know your "ideal" weight gain, calculate your BMI (Body Mass Index), at the very beginning of pregnancy or just before becoming pregnant. You will obtain the corresponding value by dividing your weight (in kg) by your height² (in m).
Example: you weigh 57 kg for 1.65 m, your BMI is 57/1.65² = 20.9
A weight gain of 12.5 to 18 kg is generally recommended for women with a low BMI (less than 20), between 11.5 and 16 kg for women with a "normal" BMI (between 20 and 26 for a woman at the very beginning of pregnancy), between 7 and 11.5 kg for overweight or obese women (BMI between 26 and 29), or even less if the BMI exceeds 29 kg/m2.
How much does the placenta, baby or amniotic fluid weigh?
For a total weight gain of between 12 and 13 kg, it is estimated that 4.5 kg correspond to the weight of the baby, the placenta and the amniotic fluid . Body fat reserves are equivalent to 4 kg. The increase in blood volume and water retention amount to 2.4 kg, and the increase in the volume of the breasts and uterus to 1.5 kg.
Kilos and pregnancy: the risks of excess weight
You are over 4 kg and you are not even in the third month ? OK. Don't panic. A dietary error can always be corrected. But you have to take action in time to avoid minor inconveniences. Indeed, excessive weight gain can result in high blood pressure, gestational diabetes , and a larger than average baby, which can complicate childbirth, particularly by requiring a caesarean section . Not to mention that "extra" pounds, which are difficult to lose after pregnancy, are not necessarily good for morale... If this is your case, consult your gynecologist or midwife, who will refer you to a dietician, to gently rebalance your diet .
The risks of insufficient weight gain
Some women do not eat enough during their pregnancy. The risk is not on the baby's side, who will draw on his mother's reserves anyway (however meager they may be!). The risk is rather on the mother's side, who can develop deficiencies. If you are unable to gain weight, talk to your doctor or midwife!
Pregnant women: how not to gain too much weight during pregnancy? Our advice
Beware of fast sugars
Bad news! Chocolate, cakes and other sweets should stay in the cupboard... In case of a small craving, eat dried fruits, already measured out so as not to end up in the packet: " about ten hazelnuts or almonds and two or three dried apricots ". And why not rice cakes covered in dark chocolate or organic biscuits, much less sweet and fatty than their equivalent?
Dairy products
Some dairy products may be better tolerated than others by expectant mothers. If you suffer from gastric acidity, reduce your yogurt consumption to one per day. If necessary, replace it with a petit-suisse or cheese such as comté or parmesan, paying close attention to the proportions: fattier than yogurt, do not exceed 15 or 20 g per portion. For those of you who have difficulty digesting milk since you were expecting Baby, consider vegetable juices (almond...).
To be consumed without moderation
Fruits , to avoid bloating (unless your doctor advises moderation, especially in cases of gestational diabetes), and water, to prevent water retention .
Treat yourself too...
Indulgence is not necessarily a sin, even while waiting for Baby… Reserve Sunday for a croissant or pain au chocolat for breakfast. And, if it’s summer, allow yourself to indulge in a sorbet at snack time, from time to time: treating yourself is important!
Don't forget to exercise!
Your big belly doesn't excuse you from sports sessions. Walking, swimming , exercise bike... gentle exercises are good for you! Be careful, however, to protect the baby and its implantation during the first two months of pregnancy.
